Episode 220: Terence Clarke- Cross-Cultural Communication

This is episode #220 of Leadership Conversations: The Untold Secrets of the C-Suite by Nick Jonsson, and we are pleased to welcome Terence Clarke, CEO of UPSKILL Coaching & Consulting. In this enriching conversation, Terence brings his expertise on Cross-Cultural Communication, with a focus on bridging the gap between global and Chinese business practices—a topic increasingly vital in today’s interconnected world.

In this episode, Terence dives deep into the nuances of working across cultures, particularly in business environments where global organizations interact with Chinese partners, clients, or teams. He explains that while globalization has brought markets closer together, communication gaps, cultural misunderstandings, and differing expectations can still hinder effective collaboration. According to Terence, success requires more than translation—it demands cultural intelligence, sensitivity, and a willingness to adapt.

Drawing from years of hands-on experience in consulting and international business, Terence shares practical strategies for overcoming common cultural barriers. He highlights the importance of understanding key Chinese business values—such as trust, hierarchy, face (miànzi), and relationship-building (guanxi)—and explains how these concepts shape negotiations, decision-making, and professional interactions. Terence also offers examples of how global leaders can unintentionally miscommunicate when they overlook these cultural dimensions, and how small adjustments in communication style can significantly improve outcomes.

Listeners will gain insights into how to navigate cross-cultural meetings, build rapport more effectively, and avoid missteps that could jeopardize partnerships. Terence emphasizes that cross-cultural communication is not about memorizing rules, but about building awareness, curiosity, and empathy. By doing so, leaders create an environment where collaboration thrives and opportunities expand.

Whether you're leading multinational teams, entering the Chinese market, or simply wanting to communicate more effectively with culturally diverse colleagues, this episode offers actionable takeaways. Terence’s blend of real-world examples and practical tools will help you bridge cultural divides, foster mutual respect, and build stronger, more sustainable business relationships.

Tune in for an insightful discussion that will elevate your communication skills, enhance your global leadership capabilities, and support long-term international success.

Contact Terence Clarke to collaborate with him:

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/terencehclarke/⁠

Visit our website to find more podcast  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nickjonsson.com/leadership-conversations-the-untold-secrets-of-the-c-suite⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠