As an increasing number of American businesses become international or global
organizations, there is a greater need for employees representing these busi
nesses to be more global in their awareness and understanding of different
cultures. As a complete understanding of all aspects of all cultures is probably
impossible, training in specific aspects of "target cultures" is common and an
appropriate and intelligent approach. In understanding these target cultures,
however, we suggest that issues related to gender have not been adequately
emphasized by programs designed to prepare business representatives for
international business. A multi-cultural approach implies that we are simulta
neously members of many different cultures — some more dominant than others
at times. One of these simultaneous cultural influences is gender. And the
influences of gender on intercultural communication are important. We suggest
that as a result of the importance cultures place on gender and appropriate
gender roles, issues surrounding gender roles have an influence in many interna
tional business transactions and require a more careful examination.
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