Communication channels and interpersonal communication between South African and German business partners

Abstract

Good communication skills are vital, especially in business. This study investigated the role of interpersonal communications in managing South African – German business relationships. The objective of the study was to identify which communication channels South African businesses use to communicate with their German business partners, and which are perceived to be the most effective. In order to accomplish the objective, a survey was conducted by means of self-administered e-mail based questionnaires. In addition, a few depth interviews were conducted to help interpret the quantitative results of the study. In both cases, the respondents were purposively selected. Based on the findings, recommendations were provided on how communication can be made more effective to improve South African and German business relationships.