Adapted from a compilation by the ASAE International Section Listserv, May 2008
- If the audience does not have English as their first language, speak slower than usual, use simpler/smaller words, and simpler/shorter sentences. Long, compound sentences will confuse the audience.
- Avoid ‘nation-centric’ expressions, idioms or slang.
- Never use sports or war analogies.
- Limit the use of acronyms or internal lingo and jargon unless previously described/explained.
- Do not tell jokes. Feel free to use humor, preferably self-deprecating – and even then sparingly. There is humor we all share; look to what makes us human. Pay very close attention to the audience members. If they are not laughing when you think they should be, immediately cut back on the humor you are using.
- Adapt all geographically variable measurements and influences (such as seasons, distances, currencies, etc.) to the local situation — unless the differences are important to the discussion.
- Presentations should be timeless; remove references such as “last week” or “this afternoon”; this helps if the session is recorded in any fashion. For live webcasts broadcast in different times zones, do not start with "good morning" or "good afternoon."
- Avoid using graphics or photos on your PowerPoint presentation that may be nation-centric or that could be offensive to other cultures.
- Your PowerPoint should only serve as an aid to your presentation, with a limited number of words. However, if your audience does not have your language as their first language, the visual element may help aid comprehension; Either add slides with some of the important concepts or distribute a handout. If needed, have a local contact translate the slides or handout.
- Use a picture or image to tell a story if you are sure the message behind it is universal. But be careful; it rarely is.
- Find out in advance what the dress code for the event is, and dress accordingly.
- Regardless of your allotted time and when you were supposed to start, or when you actually start, finish according to the original schedule. You might get away with finishing late in North America, but you won't in Finland or Germany.
- Make every attempt to learn more about your audience, their culture, and preferred learning style. This will help you interpret their verbal feedback during a question-and-answer session and their nonverbal responses to your presentation. Consider the following nonverbal actions.:
- In India, do not worry if audience members shake their head; this means that they agree.
- In Japan, do not be concerned if audience members occasionally close their eyes.
- In Japan, do not single out someone to answer a question. Audience members prefer not to speak as individuals; they assume the speaker (sensei/teacher) is to be respected and listened to.
- In Finland, do not expect audience feedback.
- In the Netherlands, expect to be challenged during your talk. The Dutch value debate - even when they agree with you.
