Cross cultural communication is essential to formation of effective relationships with peoples around the world. Without regard for differing cultural patterns, one runs the risk of misinterpreting the actions, words, or gestures of others. There are several non-verbal gestures that may mean one thing in one culture, yet translate differently in another culture.
Look at the picture below, and ask yourself what you think the gesture made by the Japanese woman mean in her culture.
The Japanese woman is signifying that she is angry or disgruntled by what she has witnessed or heard.
Look at the picture below and ask yourself what the gesture made by the Iranian woman signifies in her culture.
Look at the picture below and ask yourself what the nonverbal communication made by the French woman would mean in France.
This gesture does not indicate that something is wrong with this woman's eye, which would be a natural conclusion made by a North American viewer. In fact, this woman is gesturing in order to say "I don't believe you."
As you can see from the pictures above, it is not always easy to tell what people from other cultures are thinking. In fact, it is easy to misinterpret their intentions based on the cultural standpoint of the viewer and or listener. In order to guard against these blunders, it is essential to formulate a clear understanding of international protocol. This is particularly important for those who are conducting business affairs. In a world where cultures overlap with higher frequency, it is imperative that one recognize the unique intricacies of differing cultures.
The following web pages will arm the average North American with the tools necessary to understand and communicate effectively with those of other cultures.