Question 1

Many of the world's industrialized countries have formally agreed to a new global treaty that bans the practice of bribery of foreign government officials. What organization promoted this treaty?

Accepted Answer

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) promoted the treaty to ban the practice of bribery of foreign government officials. The other options, such as the Central Intelligence Agency and Ministry of Industry and Trade, are not relevant organizations for this topic. The World Trade Organization is involved in promoting international trade, but not specifically related to anti-bribery treaties.

Question 2

Which of the following statements about gender differences in communication is least accurate?

Accepted Answer

In general, research has shown that women tend to use more "we" statements and men tend to use more "I" statements. This suggests that men are more likely to assert their individuality and women are more likely to emphasize connection and group identity.

Question 3

What is the best advice for an American businessperson who is traveling to Sweden on business?

Accepted Answer

Following up oral negotiations and agreements in writing is important in Sweden as it is a high-context culture where verbal agreements are often taken seriously. Having a written document helps avoid miscommunications and ensures clarity for both parties.

Question 4

Jackson will be attending a professional conference in Vietnam. What should he do to try to enhance oral communication with his colleagues?

Accepted Answer

While learning the language of the country he is visiting would be helpful, it may not be feasible for Jackson to become fluent in Vietnamese before attending the conference. Therefore, the best choice would be to listen without interrupting. This shows respect for his colleagues and allows him to better understand their perspectives and ideas. Additionally, assuming that his colleagues will speak English well or that gestures indicate comprehension can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications.

Question 5

You are writing a letter to a potential customer in Italy. Which of the following should you include in your letter?

Accepted Answer

Use the metric system when providing weights and measures in your letter as Italy uses the metric system. It is important to tailor your communication to the cultural norms of your audience. Avoid using clichés or slang as it may not translate well and could be seen as unprofessional. Also, avoid using excessive abbreviations as it may make your letter difficult to understand.

Question 6

In conversation with a Korean businessperson who speaks English fairly well, Meaghan discovers that much of what she has just said was not understood by the Korean. In continuing the conversation, Meaghan should

Accepted Answer

Speaking more slowly and loudly may not necessarily improve understanding and can come across as condescending. Discontinuing the conversation is not productive and may come across as rude. Keeping a stern, unsmiling face can create a tense atmosphere and make the Korean feel uncomfortable. Accepting blame for the misunderstanding and using simpler language shows a willingness to communicate effectively and can lead to better understanding.

Question 7

According to Transparency International, what are the two most corrupt countries in the world?

Accepted Answer

Transparency International has consistently ranked North Korea and Somalia as the most corrupt countries in the world. As of 2021, they are tied for last place in the Corruption Perceptions Index.

Question 8

Emma runs a small business and wants to improve communication among her increasingly diverse staff. Which of the following should she do?

Accepted Answer

Emma should consider having employees take part in diversity awareness training. This will help increase understanding and awareness of different cultures, leading to better communication and a more inclusive work environment. Encouraging employees to think alike or expecting conformity may actually hinder diversity and limit creativity and innovation in the workplace.

Question 9

Which of the following statements most accurately describes diversity in the workplace?

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that diverse teams are better equipped to create products and services that cater to diverse consumer needs, ultimately improving overall business performance.

Question 10

What is the least accurate statement about social networking among cultures?

Accepted Answer

Social and digital media do not necessarily make introverts more extroverted; rather, they may provide a platform for introverts to express themselves more comfortably, but it doesn't inherently change their personality type.

Question 11

Caroline is writing a business letter to a German client. What should she do as she prepares the letter?

Accepted Answer

Caroline should use correct grammar and conventional punctuation to ensure that her letter is clear and easy to understand for her German client, who may not be a native English speaker.

Question 12

What is the best advice for citing numbers when writing letters to businesspeople in other cultures?

Accepted Answer

Always convert dollar figures into local currency.

Question 13

Which of the following U.S. laws prohibits payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business?

Accepted Answer

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 prohibits payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. The other options listed are not directly related to this type of illegal activity.

Question 14

Which of the following would be the best sentence to include in an e-mail message going to someone from another culture?

Accepted Answer

The option D is more culturally appropriate as it expresses a sense of respect and consideration for the other party. In many cultures, building relationships and establishing personal connections before getting down to business is highly valued. Option A and B are too direct, while C contains an idiom that may not be easily understood by someone from another culture.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about intercultural ethics is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Many companies today require their employees to take ethics training programs to ensure that they understand and can navigate different cultural expectations in business interactions. The other options are inaccurate – there are many companies with codes of ethics worldwide, the United States is not the least corruptible country, and ethics in global business is important now more than ever.

Question 16

Which of the following statements about diversity in the workplace is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

Advances in technology, such as assistive devices and telecommuting, are allowing more physically challenged individuals to work in a variety of industries. This has led to greater diversity in the workplace, including a higher number of employees with disabilities. The other statements are not accurate. Diversity in the workplace includes many factors beyond just race and gender. While there has been progress in increasing diversity, there is still much work to be done. The workplace is gradually becoming more diverse in terms of age, gender, race, and ethnicity. Finally, while some workers are choosing to retire early, the number of older employees is actually on the rise due to a larger aging population and longer life expectancies.

Question 17

Leonard will be traveling on business to a country where he knows bribes are a normal part of business. Which of the following is the best advice for Leonard?

Accepted Answer

Bribes are illegal and unethical, and can result in serious legal and reputational consequences for both Leonard and his company. Instead, Leonard should find alternatives to paying bribes, such as offering nonmonetary benefits, negotiating better terms, or finding a different business partner. Leonard should also consult with his company's legal and compliance departments before making any decisions.

Question 18

Jake is working for a global consulting firm and will be writing letters to intercultural audiences around the world. What is the best advice you can give him?

Accepted Answer

Using clear and concise language is crucial when writing to intercultural audiences, as they may not be as familiar with idiomatic expressions or two-word verbs. Using single words instead of two-word verbs can also help avoid confusion and miscommunication.

Question 19

Which of the following U.S. laws is a tool in the domestic anticorruption battle, forbidding off-the-book bribes?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following U.S. laws is...

Question 20

Gordon was just hired by a company with an extremely diverse workforce. He wants to fit in immediately. What should he do?

Accepted Answer

Concentrating on shared experiences, mutual goals, and similar values is the best approach to fitting in immediately with a diverse workforce. Relying on stereotypes or assuming everyone shares the same holidays and lifestyles can lead to misunderstandings and even offense. Trying to conform immediately may also come across as insincere. It's important to be respectful and curious about different cultures and backgrounds, but also focus on what brings the team together.

Quiz 3: Intercultural Communication