cultural differences in communication by kjersti naeringsrud diplomatic academy of london
TRANSCRIPT
Cultural Differences In Communication
By
Kjersti Naeringsrud
Diplomatic Academy of London
Topics
Definitions: Culture and Communication Key Aspects of Intercultural
Communication Cultural Contexts: Hall Non-Verbal Communication Potential Communication Problems Tips for Effective Communication Conclusion
Definitions
Communication: A process in which a person, through the use of signs/symbols, verbally and/or non verbally, but intentionally, conveys meaning to another in order to affect change.
Culture: System of shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that the members of society use to cope with their world and with one another.
5 Key Aspects That May Have an Impact on Intercultural Communication
1. Level of Formality
2. Level of Directness and Explicitness
3. Perception of Time Monochronic-time cultures ( Western countries) Polychronic-time cultures (Asia, Latin-America)
4. Individualism vs. Collectivism
5. Show of Emotions
Cultural Contexts: Hall High Context Cultures Relationships are long lasting Agreements tend to be spoken Cultural Patterns are slow to change Low Context Cultures Messages must be explicit Agreements are written Cultural patterns are faster to change
Non Verbal Communication
By some estimates, 75 percent of all
communication is non-verbal Stance Gesture Eye movement Voice quality Dress: a contextual clue
Potential Communication Problems
Problems with translation Problems with pronunciation Problems with choice and meaning
Ambiguous wordsUnfamiliar words
Problems with slang and idiomatic expressions
Tips for Effective Communication Across Cultures
Develop a sense of cultural awareness Do away with ethnocentrism Recognize differences Show respect for your counterparts Learn to adapt Be more tolerant
Conclusion
Because people of different cultures differ in the way they do things,the way they view things and they way they communicate,it is important that we develop an awareness of what it means to come from our own culture and make the effort to achieve a better understanding of how things may operate differently in other cultures.
References
Mead, Richard,(1998). International Management
Seely, H.Ned, Seely –James, Alan,(1995). Culture Clash
Weaver,Gary R,(1996). Culture,Communication and Conflict:Readings in Intercultural Realtions