1. Adjusting to American Communication
Types of Communication Differences in the Workplace

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

3. Communication Descriptions
Intrapersonal- communication with yourself
Interpersonal- communication with others
Public- speaking to an audience to inform or persuade
Source:
Mass- sending a message to many receivers at once.
Small Group 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

4. 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:
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.

5. 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:

6. 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 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.

7. 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:
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