A general definition of cultural diversity in a given society is based on common traditions such as kindness, efficiency and logic that have evolved over time.
Culture gives us a structure in which to operate. Think of it as Canadian rules of the game. Have you tried to play hockey without knowing the rules? Have you tried to socialize without any knowledge of our culture? If you have, you were probably not very popular or very successful.
As a French-speaking province in an English-speaking country, we are deeply attached to our roots and to our culture. We benefit from traditions and customs of our own that reflect our history, our population and our reality.
Our culture is the very symbol of our identity. We, as Québécois, join our French and English roots together with our Amerindian heritage. We are influenced by our proximity to the United States and by our multiethnic and multicultural population that shapes our demographic profile.
When your verbal and nonverbal communication styles take Montréal's culture into account, you've made a giant step toward blending in with our surroundings.
You may still feel like a stranger in a strange land but you are less likely to be treated as one. Your most significant message, that you want to behave courteously according to the standards of our culture, is clearly communicated.
Failure to pay attention to our cultural differences and to information which are vital to effective personal or business relationships is guaranteed to damage your prospects. A single cultural gaffe in an initial contact can reduce or eliminate the possibility of a second contact. In effect, a bad first impression can ruin any chance of a new relationship or of a successful negotiation or business deal.
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