10 Pointers to Keep in Mind When Communicating with Locals in a Foreign Country 3 Give it a Try and Don't Get Angry. 4 Take It One Step at a Time 5 Make sure to keep eye contact. 6 Offer A Handshake. 7 Refrain from Using Preconceived Ideas. 8. Become Familiar with a Few Phrases 9 Stop Being Condescending. 10 Dont Drink Too Much Beforehand.