Cross cultural communication involves the interplay of verbal and nonverbal signals between speakers. Nonverbal communication includes issues such as personal space and body language:

• Gestures help members of a culture clarify confusing messages, but differences in body language can be a major source of misunderstanding during intercultural communication.
• Hand gestures change meaning across cultures, so interpreting nonverbal elements according to your own culture can be dangerous.
• Don't assume that someone from another culture who speaks your language has mastered your culture's body language.
• People from different cultures may misread an intentional nonverbal signal, overlook the signal entirely, or assume that a meaningless gesture is significant.
• Recognizing cultural differences helps avoid sending inappropriate signals and helps correctly interpret the signals from others-an important step toward improving intercultural sensitivity.

When communicating verbally, remember the following strategies to enhance and ensure positive communication:

• Listen carefully and patiently.
• Speak slowly, clearly and avoid jargon or slang.
• Be brief with frequent requests for feedback to ensure comprehension.
• Use accurate language and clarify the intent of your message.
• Remember that body language is still part of the communication.