Non-English speakers may feel they don't fit in or aren't part of the team, and they certainly can't be as productive as possible. If the number of workers is large enough or the problem severe enough, companies may consider classes to help overcome language problems. Even if your company does not see a need to provide such extensive assistance, be aware that barriers may still exist during training or other language-intensive situations. Also, be aware that your employees may not be as strongly disciplined as Americans are to sit quietly and listen in a classroom setting. Trainers and supervisors should use direct, simple language, since employees will probably interpret them literally.
Many experts believe understanding a country's religion is vital to understanding the culture.
Be aware that in many cultures, religion dominates life in a way Americans can find hard to understand. Try to accommodate religious beliefs without drawing undue attention to them. For example, labeling pork products in the cafeteria to accommodate Muslims and Jews is an unobtrusive form of support. Not every country has an 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. work day or the same kind of work ethic as America. International employees may not be as driven or as willing to sacrifice personal time to the job.