The Art of Business Communication From Asian Perspectives: An Analysis of Language Use and Link-Pin Channels in Inter- and Intra-Cultural Contexts

Abstract

This paper investigates the complex dynamics of Asian business communication through four empirical case studies. A mixed-methods approach combines qualitative and quantitative analyses. Cases 1 and 2 assess direct communication between Chinese and Japanese participants. Case 3 examines mutual link-pin communication in an American multinational corporation. Case 4 explores how Mainland Chinese expatriates navigate Western business environments, highlighting the role of language link pins in intercultural exchanges. The findings highlight (1) the importance of second-language competence in the intercultural context, (2) the necessity of recognizing contextual influences where high-and low-context languages converge, suggesting that high-context and low-context communication “exist along a continuum rather than as mutually exclusive categories,” and (3) the importance of link-pin communication in intercultural organizational settings. The findings contribute to existing literature on business communication and offer practical insights for professionals navigating the multifaceted landscape of Asian business environments.