Cross Cultural communication

Verbal communication Language Catchphrases, slang, accents, dialect Second-Language Use People go out of their way to learn English Speaking to someone who is not fluent in English – use standard terms, and avoid jargon and obscure language Conventions Cultural values and norms affect how we use language in certain situations

Explicit and Implicit Communication Western view – individuals perceive truth and state it explicitly. Middle Eastern/Asian cultures – politeness is more important (so communication is implicit/indirect) Verbosity/Silence Cultures vary in how much and how loudly they talk Other cultures use silence for negotiating/to encourage people to continue to speak their mind Silence is NOT always a bad thing

Non verbal communication Physical proximity, orientation, body movements, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact and tone of voice Smiling is universal!  However, it may also be used in some cultures to conceal nervousness Shaking of the head means no…in the west But sometimes means yes, in other places

Non verbal communication Distance How close you are to someone when you are speaking to them Greeks stand closer than Americans who stand closer than Norwegians Be culturally intelligent and mindful of the comfort of the other person Touching Symbolizes various emotions/relationships Handshake – normally considered friendly Kissing – depends on culture and also differences for men/women North Americans – low touch Body Position Waiting for others to sit/standing when others enter the room

Non verbal communication Facial Expression Many cultures disguise their true feelings from how they actually feel Some Asian countries – use smiling to hide displeasure, fear, or anger Eye Contact Making/avoiding eye contact Observe and be mindful of non-verbal communication Be skilled to modify one owns behaviour to the situation = cultural intelligence