Another
major aspect of communication style is the degree of importance given to
non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication includes not only facial
expressions and gestures; it also involves seating arrangements, personal
distance, and sense of time. In addition, different norms regarding the
appropriate degree of assertiveness in communicating can add to cultural
misunderstandings. For instance, some white Americans typically consider raised
voices to be a sign that a fight has begun, while some black, Jewish and
Italian Americans often feel that an increase in volume is a sign of an
exciting conversation among friends. Thus, some white Americans may react with greater
alarm to a loud discussion than would members of some American ethnic or
non-white racial groups.
One
of the ways I find myself communicating differently with people from different
groups and cultures is that I’m from Africa so I’m not as fast as Caucasians
when I’m communicating. I try to pay more attention in order to hear them. I
find it difficult most times to look straight into people’s eyes while communicating
with them like some other groups do. I try to be more careful when I’m talking
with people the way I move or position part of my body for example the hand,
face, and legs and so on because others may read meaning to it. When I'm taking to people older than me that are from Africa I usually show some signs by bending my kneels when I'm greeting them and don't look straight to their eyes but when I'm talking to some white people especially Canadians I have to.
Cultural differences is very important to bear in mind in communication because different groups have different ways they would want to be treated which is the "Platinum Rule" which is one of the strategies I use for effective communication. I also watch out for non verbal communication and try to use simple words in other to prevent misunderstanding.
Cultural differences is very important to bear in mind in communication because different groups have different ways they would want to be treated which is the "Platinum Rule" which is one of the strategies I use for effective communication. I also watch out for non verbal communication and try to use simple words in other to prevent misunderstanding.
References:
http://www.pbs.org/ampu/crosscult.html
I think you did a great job here of capturing the importance of non-verbal communication. Often times when we talk about communication we forget that non-verbal communication is just as important and meaningful as verbal communication.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post. I also sometimes find it hard to make eye contact with people I communicate with.
ReplyDeleteI agree about the non-verbal communication, It can be very tricking when dealing with some cultures and people. Thank you for noting the differences of cultural communication as to voices, I didn't know that. I'm glad you take your time and listen to people before responding, I think that is a lost art!!
ReplyDeleteGood post! I found it very informative and I have to agree the way we word things when communicating is so important. The idea you suggested of the use of simple words or wording an cut down on alot of misunderstandings or confusion.
ReplyDelete