Adjusting to American Communication Types of Communication Differences in the Workplace

Different Communication Types Intrapersonal Interpersonal Public Mass Small Group Non-verbal Source: www.ehow.com Each type of communication occurs in several different contexts- for example: Starting & maintaining relationships Accomplishing specific task Disseminating information

Communication Descriptions Intrapersonal- communication with yourself Interpersonal- communication with others Public- speaking to an audience to inform or persuade Source: www.ehow.com Mass- sending a message to many receivers at once. Small Group- 5-10 people communicate to accomplish a task or fulfill need for companionship or support Non-verbal- communication does not include words- people use their bodies & eye contact

Different Communication Types- No Problem! Differences present challenges in workplace Communication styles and ways of relating to others – influenced by many factors- High- Context vs Low-Context – one major factor Source: http://smallbusiness.chron.com High-Context Communication- Eastern-based & some European cultures Relies on relationships- Use sublet & implicit messaging Low-Context Communication- Western-European based cultures Relies explicitly on spelling out instructions, rules, directions and expectations. Important to follow instructions as given.

High Context vs Low Context Do I “let my words speak for themselves” Do I prefer to be more direct, relying on what is explicitly stated in my speech? (low-context) Problems that can occur in both context: Differences in direction, quantity & quality. What’s the difference & how do I know it when I see it??? Ask yourself (Intrapersonal) Do I recognize implied messages from others, am I aware of verbal and non-verbal cues to understand the speaker’s message? (high-context) Source: http://mqjeffery.hubpages.com

Types of Communication Problems Communication is key, but problems are a fact of life. Bad communication can lead to further problems and poor outcomes. For example: Lack of personal contact Can lead to misinterpreting the tone of an email or phone message. Lack of clarity- Different employees interpret information in different ways. Lack of feedback- Getting and giving feedback on a regular basis is important – can provide opportunity to improve Lack of Honesty- Honesty is always important – lay out the facts and provide as much information as possible.

Communication Tools for Understanding Cultural Differences Low-Context communicators with High-Context listeners be aware of: Nonverbal messages & gestures important as what’s said Face-saving ad tact are important- need to be balanced Building good relationship, indirect routes & creative thinking important alternatives to problem-solving Source: www.beyondintractability.org High-Context communicators with Low-Context listeners be aware of: Things taken at face value rather than layers of meaning Roles & functions not same as status & identity Efficiency & effectiveness important to stay on task Direct questions & observations not meant to offend, but rather to clarify Indirect cues not enough to get other’s attention