Non-verbal interaction: An introduction to the cross-cultural context

In the blog last week, we concluded our examination of the distinct variations in organisational cultures and behavioural expectations, especially in a across-cultural context. This week we will begin a new series on non-verbal interaction or what is sometimes called interpersonal signalling.

The significance of understanding non-verbal communication

From the outset, it is important to be aware that learning to become fluent and comfortable in non-verbal interaction can be much more challenging than simply learning the basics of a particular language. Indeed, the acquisition of non-verbal abilities requires a great deal of patience combined with the confidence to practise what are sometimes experienced as very confusing actions from familiar norms in the domestic context. However, a failure to acquire such competencies can lead to a great deal of everyday interpersonal misunderstandings or even conflict, especially during the early stages of any experience of a new cultural environment.

Therefore, in each of the following blogs we will also explore case study examples of non-verbal interaction that are based on my personal experience of living in a variety of cross-cultural contexts combined with examples provided by my colleagues. Here, it is also important to learn to appreciate that the acquisition of core non-verbal signalling takes time, effort, and practice, together with a sense of humour, given that this is an area rich in comedy rather than presumed threats. Then, priority in each of these case studies is to illustrate the day-to-day importance of positive non-verbal signalling as an essential element to the process of becoming comfortable in any new cross-cultural community and competent in terms of everyday life skills.

Moreover, in each blog we shall also explore some of the foundation background models that attempt to explain more about the origins and specific functions of these non-verbal conventions. For example, some cultures rely much more heavily on non-verbal signalling than others. This is illustrated in what Hofstede defines as the contrast between collectivist cultures such as China, India, and the Arab cluster of nations, and more individualistic cultures such as those situated in Northern Europe and members of the English-speaking nations. Then, in each blog one further reading will be provided for those that wish to develop a deeper understanding of the topic.

So, in the blog next week we shall begin our journey by investigating the topic of spatial awareness that is also more formally known as proxemics. This topic combines all the factors listed above of being quite comical, the cause of everyday misunderstanding and frustration, and more seriously, the potential breakdown of interpersonal relationships.

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Question 1

To what extent is it possible to learn to mirror non-verbal behaviour in other cultures?

Question 2

In what ways might misunderstanding non-verbal signalling disrupt interpersonal communication?

Question 3

Why are the cultural expectations of appropriate body space so influential in daily interactions?

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We shall explore Question 3 in the next blog.