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The TransAtlantic Blog
Free cultural insights and communication tips you can use right away.



Why You Need to Learn to Interrupt Others
There are many reasons why you would want to - and should - speak up during a meeting. But you don't do it, because you're not sure when and how to cut in. Get tips and tools for effective interrupting - so your ideas don't remain stuck in your head but make it into the conversation.
1 day ago


"Betriebsurlaub"? Not in the U.S.
Company-wide summer breaks are normal in parts of Europe, but highly unusual in the US. How can you ensure that collaboration with your U.S. partners stays on track, even as you slow down for the summer?
Aug 4


Five Rules Every Leader Should Follow in Email Writing
Five email-writing principles that will increase the chances that your recipients will read your messages, understand them, and follow up with action.
Jul 7


In the Media: Insights on Intercultural Competence
I recently had the opportunity to share my insights on intercultural competence in two expert interviews for the Austrian HR platform hr.web.
Jun 27


Storytelling or Oversharing? How Not to Cross the Line.
Many people are aware of the benefits of storytelling in business - but there's a lot that can go wrong when you share a story. Learn about the risks of storytelling and how to avoid them.
Jun 19


Is Your Language at War? A Closer Look at Military Expressions in Business
War metaphors are common in U.S. business communication. They project urgency, unity, and determination - but they can also trigger negative reactions. Learn about the upsides and downsides of military expressions in business.
May 30


Florida Explained: Business, Lifestyle & Local Know-How. Part 2.
Read about three aspects of Florida life that may surprise you: the long-standing tradition of beach driving, a vibrant and supportive startup scene, and a popular outdoor marketing technique.
May 9


Employee Benefits Are Cultural Too.
Size is a big difference between Austria and the U.S. - but not the only one. For professionals relocating to the U.S., employee benefits can be a complex hurdle.
Apr 25


Silence, Small Talk, or Speaking Out: How to Handle Conversations During Tense Times
As an international professional in the U.S. workplace, it can be confusing to know what to say in polarizing times. Here are five insights that will help.
Apr 11


How to Ask Questions that Yield Information and Build Relationships
From "yeses" and "nos" to meaningful responses. Learn a practical technique to help you formulate great questions.
Mar 28


Finding the Balance: When to Be Precise and When to Be Vague
Precise communication is important in business, but sometimes, intentional vagueness is more effective. Finding a balanced approach is key.
Mar 16


Florida Explained: Business, Lifestyle & Local Know-How. Part 1.
What's it like to live, work, and do business in Florida? My new blog series has insights for anyone with business or personal interests.
Feb 25


Executive Presence: English Fluency Isn’t Enough for Success in the U.S.
To be successful in the U.S. business world, international leaders need more than English fluency. The need executive presence.
Feb 16


The Power of Icebreaker Questions in US Business Communication
Icebreaker questions can open doors to new business opportunities, but small talk in English can be hard. Get tips on how to do it.
Jan 31


Want to Sound Natural? Begin with a Script.
Scripts aren’t the enemy of spontaneity. They are the starting point for a natural performance, especially for non-native English speakers.
Jan 17


Still Stuck on Words? The Secret to Great Goal Communication Is in the Sentence.
Discover three easy ways to boost your goal communication and articulate goals that motivate, drive action, and turn into achievements.
Jan 5


Leaders Need Cultural Fluency - Here's How You Build It
Cultural fluency is a core skill for success in new environments and working with diverse teams. Discover the three steps to build it.
Dec 8, 2024


How to Talk About the U.S. Election Results: Tips for International Professionals
Politics can be a tricky topic. Read my advice on how to approach the election results with your American partners, clients, and colleagues.
Nov 19, 2024


Networking: Joining Group Conversations with Confidence
Hesitant to join conversations at networking events? Not sure how to approach and what to say? Here are some practical strategies to help.
Oct 27, 2024


Understanding American Work Culture: The Role of Religion
Understanding the role of religion in American culture and how faith may influence the workplace is crucial to succeeding in the U.S.
Oct 9, 2024
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