Communication Across Cultures

What makes a multicultural person? A multiculuralist is someone who can easily adapt to living in a culture different from their own, the sort of person that could be described as a citizen of the world, or a member of a global community.

Four key qualities in order to be a multiculturalist Open-mindedness; Adaptability; Sensitiveness; Interest in other cultures.

A multiculturalist is a person who has a genuine interest in people of other cultures, who wants to learn their language, find out about their country and its history, and develop a real understanding of their culture

Cultural differences in body language There are 3 groups of countries use different communicative gestures: Nordic nations (Swedes, Finns, Norwegians, and Danes) ― slightly use gestures; British, Germans, Dutch, Belgians, and Russians ― use gestures when they are excited or want to communicate over long distances, or insult each other; Italians, Greeks, French, Spanish, and Portuguese ― use gestures a lot.

The distance that separates one person from another – “personal space” – also varies between people of different nationalities People stand close enough to touch each other easily in such countries as France, Spain, Greece and Italy. In the countries of East Europe such as Hungary, Poland and Romania, people stand a “wrist zone”, that is a little more distant. They are close enough to touch wrists. In the Scandinavian countries, in Britain, Holland, Belgium, and Germany, people stand further away from each other – the “finger tips zone”.

Dimensions of Culture: Context High-context cultures tend to be relational, collectivist, intuitive, and contemplative. Context Japan, China, Arab countries Low-context cultures tend to be logical, linear, and action-oriented. North America, Germany, Scandinavia 8

Dimensions of Culture: Formality Some cultures may prefer greater formality in dress, speech, and social interaction. Formality North Americans place less emphasis on tradition, ceremony, and social rules. 8

Dimensions of Culture: Communication Style High-context cultures rely on nonverbal cues and the total picture to communicate. Meanings are embedded at many sociocultural levels. Communication Style Low-context cultures emphasize words, straightforwardness, and openness. People tend to be informal, impatient, and literal. 8

High-Context and Low-Context Cultures Japanese Arab Latin American Spanish English Italian French North American Scandinavian German Swiss HIGH-CONTEXT CULTURES Relational Collectivist Intuitive Contemplative LOW-CONTEXT CULTURES Logical Linear Individualistic Action-oriented

Bridging the Gap: Patience Be patient Wait and listen Embrace silence Recognize the effort non-native speakers are making

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