You have given some nice examples of explicit vs. implicit communication. Following up on your advice (trying to understand and play by others’ rules), I would add that people working with international teams and clients need to PRACTICE this understanding by doing role plays and other exercises with trained facilitators. Otherwise, they’ll only THINK they’re onboard when in fact, thinking you’re using new skills vs. actually using new skills are quite different; this needs to be evaluated by trainers who recognize the difference.

Best of luck navigating these choppy but interesting waters,
Alan