The Theoretical Foundation for Intercultural Business Communication: A Conceptual Model

Abstract

This article develops a theoretical framework for intercultural business communica tion which sets it apart from intercultural communication and international busi ness. In the past, discussions on the theory of intercultural business communica tion have mostly focused on intercultural communication using business as examples rather than including business as a distinct variable. The model pre sented here discusses the intercultural, business, and communication strategies that are part of intercultural business communication. It is argued that for intercul tural business communication to take place, it is not sufficient for all three vari ables to be present. The three variables interact and create a synergy that reflects the dynamic character of intercultural business communication. In this process, intercultural business communication becomes a unique construct that is different from intercultural medical or intercultural religious communication. The article examines how past articles in the field fit into this model.

Keywords

Intercultural Business Communication Models of the Communication Process Theories of Business Communication

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