by Shayla Johnson

Created on: September 14, 2009   Last Updated: September 15, 2009

Our entire world is a cross-cultural event; especially in America, where we are considered the melting pot of the world. Still, there are many who do not know how to act at a cross-cultural event. There are many communities in America that do not experience much of the melting pot atmosphere. Here are a few tips that will help you be a good guest at a cross cultural event.

Be open minded. Not everyone in the world is exactly like you, and that does not make them bad people. Stir within yourself a genuine interest in the other cultures and this will help you not feel so closed off.

Do not judge. There are plenty of people taking on the role of passing down judgment, and they gave their selves that crown to wear. This is an event where you can come to understand others. Do not mess that up by being critical.

Do not push your own culture. If someone is interested in knowing more about you, than by all means tell them, but please do not walk around trying to convert everyone into a mini version you. If you do, soon you will be recognized as the annoying door to door salesman who won't be quiet, no matter how many times you say you are not interested.

Take in the full experience. Do not walk around with a look on your face that states you do not want to be there. Instead, seize the opportunity to meet new people and experience a new journey. You may become so fascinated with one culture that you decide to take a trip to visit it in action on a daily basis. There are many opportunities waiting to be unlocked if you go with the right attitude. You may find that socializing with people outside of your normal day to day circle is refreshing.

Be respectful to all guests. No one is saying you must embrace their culture and take on their way of living. You must however learn to coincide peacefully. A lot of prejudgments are made from false information, and this is your chance to get the facts first hand.

Cross-cultural events are great avenues to experience something new. Different cultures are amazing to study. They provide so much information pertaining to how people make their decisions. You may discover that some people really aren't all that different from you after all.

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