The ability to communicate effectively is probably the single most important skill required in order to be successful in our professional as well as our personal lives.

The rise of globalization and the rapid growth of multiculturalism in our society result in the need for us to communicate more and more with people from different cultural backgrounds either overseas or in our own country. Their background affects the way they see the world, their attitudes, values, behaviors and thought patterns.

Intercultural Communications: Learning to Work with Others will benefit those who currently interact with or are proposing to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds. These people could either be in Australia or overseas and may be employees, colleagues, community members, customers, suppliers, business partners, etc. It is designed to enhance and improve the effectiveness of communication and to assist in the development of effective relationships. This, in turn, will contribute to greater levels of support, cooperation, assistance and commitment, ultimately leading to better outcomes and greater chances of success.

It is hoped that this book will lead to a greater level of cultural competence, help eliminate misunderstandings caused by misguided assumptions, and enhance the effectiveness of intercultural communication.