An Introduction to Communicating Across Cultures

An Introduction to Communicating Across Cultures

In this section of the course, you’ll meet the faculty who teach and conduct research in this discipline. And you’ll have a look at what it means to live and work in an increasingly diverse and multicultural world.

Meet the Faculty

Presented by James O'Rourke

James S. O’Rourke, IV is an American rhetorician and Professor of Management at the University of Notre Dame. He was founder of the Fanning Center for Business Communication and – from 1990 to 2017 – served as Arthur F. and Mary J. O’Neil Director. His principal research interests include Reputation Management, Corporate Communication, Change and Intercultural Communication, as well as Business Writing and Speaking. Prof. O’Rourke is the author of 23 books on communication and is the directing editor of more than 375 business school case studies.

Run time: 1 minute

What Does It Mean to Live and Work in a Global Economy?

Presented by James O'Rourke

The economy in which we all live and work is more global than ever. Even in the face of nativist, nationalist, and populist political forces, production, manufacturing, trade and growth are globally interdependent. But, even as boundaries shift and alliances change, much about our national, social and ethnic culture remains. Working and thriving in the midst of norms, mores and people we don’t fully understand is a challenge we cannot afford to ignore.

Run time: 4 minutes

What are Global Skill Sets?

Presented by James O'Rourke

A seminal RAND Corporation study sought to answer one of the most basic questions employers and global job seekers ask: What skills and qualities will I need to succeed in a global economy? We’ll explore the findings of that study and examine how they apply to 21st-century organizations.

Run time: 6 minutes

Interacting with Others and Understanding Your Audience

Presented by James O'Rourke

Global managers are asked to interact, understand and communicate with a substantial list of widely varying audiences. We’ll look at their characteristics and interests, as well as the norms, mores, and rules by which they live.

Run time: 6 minutes

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Presented by James O'Rourke and Amanda McKendree

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Featured Speakers:

  • James S. O’Rourke, American rhetorician and Professor of Management at the University of Notre Dame. 
  • Amanda McKendree, Arthur F. and Mary J. O’Neil Director of the Fanning Center for Business Communication, Associate Teaching Professor, University of Notre Dame.

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