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The TransAtlantic Blog
Free Cultural Insights and Communication Tips You Can Use Right Away.



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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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


Mastering Follow-Up Questions: A Must-Have Skill for International Professionals
Being able to ask effective follow-up questions can be a game-changer in the workplace, but a tough skill to master. Find out more about it.
Sep 16, 2024


Directness the American Way: Nine Essential Features of Effective Communication
How direct are Americans? Dive deeper into American communication style and discover what makes you a great communicator in the United States.
Aug 23, 2024


Don't Leave Your Audience Behind: Connect the Dots
Whether you speak or write, connecting the dots for your foreign audience is crucial if you want to reach them. Three simple steps can help.
Aug 11, 2024
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