CULTURAL VARIANCES

Much of the information in this article describes the U.S. or Western perspective on nonverbal communication. Leaders need to be aware that nonverbal signals and behaviors differ across cultures. Though the six emotions of happiness, sadness, anger, fear, surprise, and disgust are recognizable across cultures, some nonverbal habits and expressions may mean different things in different cultures. For instance, people in Western cultures tend to rely a lot on nonverbal communication. People in Asian cultures, however, tend not to use nonverbal signals and behaviors as much, because they believe it makes them appear inaccessible. Moreover, a smile may indicate happiness in Western cultures but in Asian cultures may indicate discomfort or embarrassment. Here are a few more examples:

• In regard to rhythm and use of time, Americans value being on time to meetings and parties whereas people in other cultures may attach less importance to timeliness.

• In regard to interpersonal space and touch, American men tend to shy away from holding hands or touching, but many men in Africa and the Middle East consider such actions normal. Americans also keep a bigger bubble around themselves and touch others less often than do people in most other cultures.

• In regard to facial expression, eye contact is expected in Western cultures, but in Asian cultures, eye contact may be a sign of disobedience or aggression. Arab cultures tend to emphasize strong and continued eye contact, whereas some cultures in Africa believe too much eye contact is rude.