Cultural Force: Communication
The Cultural Force of Communication is important because it overlaps with so many other forces. In a sense, the Force of Communication is the culminating force through which the…
The Cultural Force of Communication is important because it overlaps with so many other forces. In a sense, the Force of Communication is the culminating force through which the other forces are often exhibited. All people communicate in various ways including language, gestures, art, music, time, etc. To increase Cultural Intelligence one must come to understand the ways in which people communicate by understanding cultural norms around this Force. And one must become responsible for communicating effectively regardless of your own cultural tendencies.
All people communicate with others using various means and styles conditioned by their cultural backgrounds. One way of looking at the Force of Communication is through looking at the
Direct and Indirect communication continuum. For our assessment we will consider whether people express their thoughts, ideas or intents directly versus indirectly.
As we consider this continuum, keep in mind these other common ways of assessing and looking at cultural norms around the Force of Communication.
The following is a general description of Direct and Indirect attitudes towards Communication. Remember these are the extremes. Most cultures and people probably fall somewhere in between, but you will usually find a “norm” with a tendency to one extreme or the other.
Direct and Indirect
The following tendencies have been identified as possible attitudes, perceptions and actions of people from cultures on each extreme of the continuum (As viewed from someone on the other extreme).
Direct Extreme Cultures
They get to the point quickly and are usually precise (Just give me the facts)
Lots of verbal communication
Tend to have an “informal” cultural tendency
Being precise and clear is expected and honored
Vagueness (indirect communication) is viewed negatively and a sign of low self confidence
Often found in "low context" cultures
Common in individual norm cultures
The feelings of others are often overlooked at the expense of making a clear point
Indirect Extreme Cultures
High amount of non-verbal communication
Tendency to be group oriented
Harmony must be kept and “face” saved
"White Lies" are common to spare the feelings of others
Found in "high context" cultures
Vagueness is honored and viewed as a source of strength and restraint
Decisions may take more time
Language may have many levels of politeness and hierarchy
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