IMPACT OF INTERCULTURAL DIFFERENCES ON BULGARIAN BUSINESS

Abstract

The issue of the importance of intercultural differences in the contemporary communication process has become extremely topical over the last 20 years. The number of employees working for foreign companies has grown significantly due to the companies’ expanding activities overseas. All international business activity involves a certain type of communication, which varies from daily exchange of information and ideas to decision-making, negotiating effectively and motivating staff. These activities are based on the ability of managers from one culture to communicate effectively with the managers and employees, representatives of other cultures, and to overcome the “invisible” obstacles and barriers, which have an impact on the operation of individual companies. The specific aim of the current study is to outline the major problems and barriers facing Bulgarian business contractors in the process of communication with representatives of foreign cultures – both abroad and in their own organizations.