Cultural Sensitivity

CULTURAL SENSITIVITY

Example:
An American Company that manufactures golf balls packaged the balls in packs of four. They were successful and began selling internationally. Howeverthey were not so successful in Japan, where the number four holds the meaning of death.

Cultural sensitivity is the quality of being aware and accepting of other cultures. This isimportant because what seems acceptable in some countries can be rude in others.

A person who is culturally sensitive is aware that there could be differences between their culture and anotherperson's, and that these differences could affect their relationship and the way they communicate with each other. A culturally sensitive person would understand other countries’traditions and ways of life, or try to learn and apply new understandings. Importantly, culturally sensitive people attempt to be free from prejudices and preconceptions about other cultures.Many employers see it as an essential skill because it is important when you are dealing in international relations or trade. It can mean the difference between a brand succeeding or failingin international markets.

It is important as a traveller as well, knowing what is acceptable and what is not. When you are traveling to another country it is very useful because thiscan help to prevent embarrassment for yourself and those around you.
Many travel guides contain information about the culture and traditions of the country. This can help you gain abetter understanding of how to behave during your stay in that country.

Opinion:
People should know something about the country they are traveling to. This would help them to communicateeasily and to know how to behave correctly in that country.

For business travelers it's very important because you can be useful to your company and climb the corporate ladder faster.