Conduct research. Educate yourself when you anticipate interacting with an individual from a foreign culture and would like to do so respectfully. Rid your mind of stereotypes and unfair assumptions before engaging in conversation. Learn all that you can about specific communication customs that you might be unfamiliar with, like a respectful bow of the head as opposed to a handshake. Use a third-party translator to transcend any existing language barriers; learning a few words of the language might also be appreciated.
Exercise a patient and forgiving attitude when entering into cross-cultural situations. Expect a few mishaps and minor misunderstandings at first, and don't be discouraged if you don't get everything right the first time. Respond carefully to your partner in conversation, answering only when you are sure you have understood him correctly. Be deliberate in your listening, and make sure to step back and think about the issue if the barriers provoke frustration. Question your own assumptions about how people should communicate, as they are rooted in your subjective experience of culture. A mediator familiar with both cultures involved may be able to clear up anything that could be received in the wrong way.
Practice. Engage in as many culturally unfamiliar experiences as you have access to, for the sake of your own learning and development. The more you converse with and observe people and groups from foreign cultural landscapes, the more you will be equipped to demonstrate preparedness, awareness and cultural sensitivity with ease. Multiple interactions with those you consider outsiders will increase your knowledge and understanding of their diverse experiences. Human beings around the world have many basic desires, needs and impulses in common, so challenge yourself to find common ground with anyone you encounter.
