M02 Discussion - Gestures & Global Contexts

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Ball State University *

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101

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Business

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Feb 20, 2024

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Collapse Subdiscussion Nicole Fites Nicole Fites Jan 21, 2024 Jan 21 at 8:22pm Manage Discussion Entry I wasn't expecting to encounter such diverse cultural differences, which made me realize my lack of knowledge about these differences. From a business perspective, it highlighted the challenges of working globally and the importance of considering these variations. The concept of "cutis" was familiar to me from a movie I had seen before. However, the article emphasized that non-verbal communication poses the most significant challenge. Simple gestures like crossing arms in certain places can be viewed as offensive, a seemingly small matter in my world but potentially impactful elsewhere. Understanding and respecting different cultures is crucial. Taking the time to comprehend their customs, including non-verbal cues, is essential. For instance, the Swedish practice of "Fika," where colleagues enjoy each other's company over coffee or tea throughout the workday. Incorporating such cultural differences into business practices, communication, and overall behavior would be beneficial and considerate. Reply Reply to Comment (1 like) Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie A Martin Melanie A Martin Jan 22, 2024 Jan 22 at 8:44pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi, Nicole, I also realized how little I know about other cultures. It must be difficult to work interculturally. I didn't know "cutis," but a few others are familiar. You're correct, things that seem small to us could get me thrown out of a restaurant elsewhere. I wonder if the same is true for their gestures, though: maybe not cause ejection from a public locale but would be offensive here. Respect makes a huge difference, in my opinion. Thinking "well that's stupid" of another culture is shallow and ethnocentric. "Fika" sounds great, but may prove difficult to implement in the U.S. Many supervisors are hard-pressed to meet deadlines and consumers often

don't want to wait for their food/product. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Natalie Renee Douthit Natalie Renee Douthit Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:17pm Manage Discussion Entry Nicole, I agree. Learning the way that some of these signs can be taken was a shock and definitely made me consider how stressful doing global work can be if you are not familiar with the customs and culture. I think that your use of "Fika" is a great example of a practice that is common for the Swedish but something we would have to learn about before working there. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Carrington Crutcher Carrington Crutcher Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 11:56am Manage Discussion Entry Hi Nicole, I agree with you about businesses incorporating cultural differences into their business practices. Making everyone feel involved and cared for can go a long way. We have thing saying in Evansville, "E is for Everyone" Just saying it is one thing, but actions go a much longer way. Non-verbal can create a lot of challenges if you are unaware of the cultural you are involved in. For example, texting is non verbal and a lot of the times a text can be misinterpreted. Going through the list made me realize I am not very knowledgeable of how another country go about their day to day life. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Gregory Flynn Duvall Gregory Flynn Duvall Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 6:39pm Manage Discussion Entry

Hi Nicole, I think realizing other cultural differences can be extremely hard, especially if you have never really been exposed to them. In the business field it is so important to understand that each and every culture has its own set of rules so to speak. I think you being aware that you may not know or understand other cultures very well will be very helpful in reminding you to do some research before traveling or doing business abroad. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 7:44pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi Nicole, I do agree with you that the key is understand and respect for culture. Having the respect to learn about others shows humility. I also agree with you that corporations should adapt local practices. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Victor Jose Torres Victor Jose Torres Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 4:47pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello Nicole, I agree with what you said about how we can gain a better understanding of different cultures. We should try and incorporate what different cultures do into our business styles to gain a better understanding of different cultures. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Dalton James Shad May Dalton James Shad May Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:40pm Manage Discussion Entry

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Absolutely, Nichole. Your insights on understanding and respecting diverse cultural differences in global business, particularly in non- verbal communication like "cutis," emphasize the crucial need for cultural sensitivity. Integrating practices such as "Fika" in Sweden underscores the strategic advantage of embracing cultural differences in business dynamics. Your awareness of these nuances is pivotal for navigating global work environments, aligning with the evolving mindset that values cultural sensitivity as a strategic asset in fostering positive business relationships globally. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Erika Campbell Erika Campbell Jan 22, 2024 Jan 22 at 7:29pm Manage Discussion Entry I was pretty surprised with some of the hand gestures mentioned. The ones that surprised me the most were the okay sign, thumbs up, and fingers crossed. These are all good signs in America for the most part and other cultures see them as rude and derogatory. I also found myself reading a couple of them several times to figure out which gesture they were describing. I tend to talk with my hands and have always been told that pointing is rude so I can see how that was brought up as offensive in this article. This article made me realize the vast amount of nonverbal differences there are in different cultures. It also highlighted for me the importance of immersing myself in cultural diversity, especially within business. I think crossing my arms will be a big challenge for me when it comes to working with different cultures as a business professional. I tend to cross my arms when I am listening and pondering information that is being presented. Direct versus indirect communication styles are different across cultures as well as formal and informal styles of addressing individuals with certain titles. Not recognizing these different styles can lead to misunderstandings in business. Critical thinking can help you use empathy and sensitivity when it comes to working with different cultures. It is extremely important to put yourself in other's shoes to be successful in business globally. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie A Martin Melanie A Martin Jan 22, 2024

Jan 22 at 8:53pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi, Erika. I, too, was surprised by the "fingers crossed". I tried acting some of them out to understand what the article meant! Talking with our hands is a sign of intelligence, in my opinion. We will definitely need to practice before doing cross-cultural business. Your reasons for crossing your arms are interesting to me, the gesture can mean many things - even in the U.S. For instance, some people do it when they're angry, bored, or like me, when they feel cold. I agree that direct/indirect communication seems tricky, much like power distance. Empathy seems to be of utmost importance. Hopefully, we can avoid errors - or at least be forgiven them - if we're genuinely trying follow the customs. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nicole Fites Nicole Fites Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 8:26am Manage Discussion Entry Hi Erika, Crossing my arms poses a significant challenge for me. Despite the common interpretation of it symbolizing coldness or closure, I often find myself doing it unintentionally. When I do catch myself in the act, I make an effort to reflect on why I did it. Sometimes it's simply due to feeling cold, but on other occasions, it stems from discomfort or a desire to maintain a certain distance in a meeting. Empathy is an area where I struggle. It doesn't come naturally to me, and I acknowledge that it's something I need to continually work on. Recognizing the value of empathy in understanding and assisting others, I am committed to improving this aspect of myself. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Jan 27, 2024 Jan 27 at 10:58pm Manage Discussion Entry

Hi Erika, I can relate to the challenge of avoiding crossing arms. Presenting in front of a group has always made me feel anxious. During my senior year in a Business Marketing class, we were advised against having a "closed posture" and encouraged to open up when presenting, as body language communicates a lot in a business setting. It has the power to convey genuine reactions and emotions. Crossing arms can be interpreted in various ways, such as defensiveness, an unyielding attitude, perseverance, or it may indicate feelings of anxiety, resistance, tension, insecurity, fear, or a response to distress. Creating a physical boundary or barrier through crossed arms can also be a way to seek self comfort when someone feels overwhelmed. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Victor Jose Torres Victor Jose Torres Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 4:49pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello Erika, I was also surprised about some of the gestures that were included on the list. The thumbs up and the fingers crossed were the two that I was most surprised about as well. It's crazy to think that some gestures that we use in our day-to-day lives can be perceived as disrespectful in other countries. This is why it is important to gain a better understanding of how different cultures operate. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Hannah A Chlumsky Hannah A Chlumsky Jan 22, 2024 Jan 22 at 8:02pm Manage Discussion Entry I found this article quite informative and surprising. Thankfully, most of the hand gestures likely to offend are not ones I’m accustomed to using. I was already familiar with the Chin Flick and Forearm Jerk, I believe from ethnic stereotypes in old movies, if I had to guess. I would not be accidentally misusing these, which is a relief. A difficult gesture for me to avoid professionally would be the crossed arms,

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which is basically my default stance. I wouldn’t know what to do with myself at a bar in Finland, apparently. This article heightens my awareness of how something seemingly benign can have a negative impact if the opportunity is not taken to educate oneself before meeting a different culture in a professional setting. Other misunderstandings could be avoided by taking the time to explore possible cultural faux pas before engaging with a global business connection. There might be ways to verbally offend, or by simple acts or omissions during a business meal which could be considered improper. By using critical thinking and being intentional about speech, body language and lesser-known customs, a savvy business-person can avoid offense and even ingratiate themself to the other individuals. Edited by Hannah A Chlumsky on Jan 22 at 8:53pm Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nancy Ellen Barnes Nancy Ellen Barnes Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:45pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello Hannah, I also have a difficult time not crossing my arms as I tend to do it when I am nervous or have anxiety. I agree that it is very important to do your research and use critical thinking skills before conducting business. I knew about the hand gesture the cutis only because I had seen it in a movie, or someone told me about it. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie A Martin Melanie A Martin Jan 22, 2024 Jan 22 at 8:31pm Manage Discussion Entry The yes/no headshake surprised me! I've seen a few foreign films and assumed the directions were universal. The Beard and The Forearm Jerk are familiar to me from sitcoms, but I didn't know that they originated in other countries. Some of the associations made sense to me, while others seem illogical. I'm certain I would understand if I knew the culture, though. I rarely use the "ok" sign because it is part of the American Sign Language motion which calls

someone a rather nasty term. Not making the thumbs up would be challenging for me, even in a professional context. I think that studying and hiring a culture coach could assist businesspeople in avoiding such blunders. Other than hand gestures, personal space, dress code, time valuation, and many more topics vary culture-to-culture. Critical thinking skills can assist me in cross-cultural communication by enabling me to actively listen, ask questions, and keep an open mind. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jacob M Atkins Jacob M Atkins Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 1:42pm Manage Discussion Entry I agree with you Melanie, the headshake switch really threw me off. I didn't even think about sign language in regards to gestures. I can imagine that adds another layer of depth to your communication skills. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Carrington Crutcher Carrington Crutcher Jan 23, 2024 Jan 23 at 10:47pm Manage Discussion Entry From watching television, reading, and social media I was aware of how diverse cultured the world is. Before reading the article, I imagined I would come across things that I never thought of before and I can say I was correct. I was more surprised than I wasn't, which is the total opposite of what I was expecting. So many things were new, but the one thing that stuck out to me was the The Fig and The Forearm Jerk. I have saw in several movies and shows when you visit someone and they offer you a drink and you decline, that is a sign of disrespect. The Head Shake can cause a lot of problem here in the United States or if you were in Greece . Common ones to me I feel are The Moutza. I believe that is similar to when someone wants you to stop talking and they put up five fingers in your face. Respecting cultures, getting to know the background and being open enough to understand the history. When looking at in from a company perspective, in my opinion they would benefit from including them into the business practices and it shows business savvy in a way as well. Edited by Carrington Crutcher on Jan 23 at 10:49pm Reply

Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nicole Fites Nicole Fites Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 8:32am Manage Discussion Entry Hi Carrington, I agree that integrating their culture into the business is the right approach. The company I'm employed with is under the ownership of a Swedish investment firm. In an effort to embrace some aspects of their culture, we have initiated the practice of "Fika," as I previously discussed. Fika is a designated time during the business day for individuals to take a break, enjoy coffee or tea, and engage in conversation with their colleagues. It's essential for individuals dealing with diverse cultures in the business world to recognize the importance of understanding and respecting cultural practices, as long as they align with ethical standards. This awareness and respect contribute to fostering a strong and inclusive work environment. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Audrey Larisa Mize Audrey Larisa Mize Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 8:54am Manage Discussion Entry Hey Carrington, I agree with with your statement that it wasn't all what you might have expected. I thought watching diverse drama tv shows integrating all areas of people in the world would make me more aware of the body language, or hand gesture usage, but it really is so much more out there than I thought. I liked the suggestion of a company stepping up in that area, such as investing in cultural sensitivity training, consult experts or guides. That is not something that I had even thought of, most of the time I try to figure things out on my own. But if I were a business woman in a company, why wouldn't I want to maintain the respect of my employees or future business partners? Good view you had ! :) Reply Reply to Comment

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Collapse Subdiscussion Natalie Renee Douthit Natalie Renee Douthit Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:12pm Manage Discussion Entry Carrington, Great post. I agree, I thought I wasn't going to be super surprised but I was wrong. Some were common knowledge from movies and pop culture but others, I had no clue. The head shake would have never crossed my mind as something that would cause confusion. I agree that getting to know a culture beforehand is important before working or traveling there. I think you are onto something with integrating that into a company. If you are planning to send employees to another country, they should be culturally competent. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jenny Mitchell Jenny Mitchell Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 12:16am Manage Discussion Entry I was a little surprised by a few things. I'm not as surprised as I thought I would be. I had to look up a few things for clarity. One thing I followed up on is what it means to make the "come here" motion with your hand in the Philippines. It is only used to call dogs. So then, I was really shocked with the article stating you could be arrested for using it any other way. There were a handful that were new to me as having bad meanings. Five fingers is a gesture that is new to me. Crossing your fingers, horns, thumbs up, and come on over were new in the way of having different meanings. I was mostly surprised by the head shake and nod. I really thought the entire world could communicate yes and no with the same gestures. The one I refer to as "Got your nose", they call it "The Fig", surprised me. Maybe because it's so cute here, I can't imagine it bad. The other meanings behind the OK sign, thumbs up, and crossing your fingers also surprised me. It's hard to imagine the severity of some of these. Maybe it's the depth of how offensive these are in other cultures that surprises me. Maybe, it's because I don't get offended easily. I can't imagine, even before reading this, using most of these in a business setting. I was familiar with the chin flick, forearm jerk, the moutza, the cutis, and slapping your fist as offensive gestures. I believe the head shake and nod for yes and no would be terribly difficult

to change for another cultural setting. I would also struggle with the come here motion and thumbs up. To navigate different cultures, you would need to be vigilant at noticing and controlling all body language. Studying the cultures and making yourself aware of the differences in gestures would be key. Some of the differences across cultures and countries to be aware of in a business setting are, attire, eye contact, and hierarchy. By far, I believe good listening skills would be the most critical aspect in communication. Not only are you gaining the knowledge being spoken, but you can also learn from their manner of speaking and gestures. This will help in understanding the culture. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Audrey Larisa Mize Audrey Larisa Mize Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 9:08am Manage Discussion Entry Hello Jenny, I really liked what you said about learning others' manner of speaking can help you in the long run especially if you are in a different country, and what you said about basically just being aware is major to me as well. Whether they are from our own culture, country, or beliefs people aren't taught the same. I find it hard to not do most of these gestures, but I believe I would definitely be investing into learning how to make others comfortable if I owned a business. I 100% believe that learning about other's cultures can improve significantly the workplace, and even raise curiosity for others to do more of their own research. Great post ! Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Jan 27, 2024 Jan 27 at 11:09pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi Jenny, I agree with your point about using a gesture in our everyday lives that might be considered offensive elsewhere. It's intriguing how something as simple as calling your dogs over could potentially lead to arrest in another culture. However, I find the statement somewhat inaccurate

regarding the Philippines. While calling someone over with a negative demeanor may be considered insulting, it's unlikely to result in arrest. I do agree with the overall idea that the severity of these gestures can be hard to believe, and perhaps the wording of the statements used in the articles made it seem intensified. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Audrey Larisa Mize Audrey Larisa Mize Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 8:47am Manage Discussion Entry My reaction to this article made me think of my guilty pleasure, the TV show called 90 Day Fiancé: 'The Other Way'. The premise of the show sends their other half to the country in which they are choosing to live in, and the majority of the time the American couples seem so shocked by the traditions and values of the country of which they are in. Some don't even attempt to learn their partners language. It brought me thinking about this show because you just see the lack of awareness people have, and in my opinion pure laziness. If I was going to visit Egypt for example, I would research appropriate clothing and make sure I was as blended in as much as possible. The information wasn't surprising to me but, informative. I've known since middle school the differences in hand gestures as well as body language. I know that if I ever travel, I will do all the research I can beforehand so I don't end up in jail for insulting or offending someone. I think it would be informative for professionals to learn about culture and the differences in body language as well as hand gestures. I think it would be hard to remember what all they are and what one would find offensive, but the more you research the more you tend to remember. I also think it would be hard to try and maintain peace among employees. Due to being individuals with different views and opinions, navigating how others can have differences as well as a friendly discussion could be challenging. Business professionals should make sure they're ready by actively allowing freedom of opinion, within reason to being respectful to one another. Adjusting the tone in conversations, as well as not allowing stereotypes to be used in the workplace. I think businesses can learn so much about different cultures by embracing and encouraging others who feel "different" to share their traditions and celebrate their culture. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Josiah Miracle Josiah Miracle

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Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 11:34am Manage Discussion Entry Hello Audrey, I agree with you that people's lack of awareness can be attributed to laziness. While learning a whole new language isn't easy, learning the simple ways to communicate in a different country/culture is fairly easy. Doing the proper research on a country before entering that country is a smart idea. Freedom of opinion is something that I want in my day-to-day life, personally and professionally. I'm glad that you brought it up. Getting first-hand knowledge from someone who lived in a particular country/culture is always a good way to prepare yourself for that country/culture. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Carrington Crutcher Carrington Crutcher Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 12:05pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi Audrey, I watched 90 Day Fiancé once and it was pretty good. Very hooked for that episode. I agree with you about if visiting another country doing a little bit of research so you are prepared. You won't be prepared for everything, but a little is a lot. Going back to middle school is when I started to realize how different the world really is. For example we would get foreign exchange students who just dressed and /or did things differently and kids thinking it was weird as well as others thinking it was cool. Your last paragraph I am in agreement with because when businesses take lead and voices that everyone will be respectful and everyone will be able to feel and be welcomed. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Gregory Flynn Duvall Gregory Flynn Duvall Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 6:46pm Manage Discussion Entry

Hi Audrey, I agree with you that people should put more effort into learning about other cultures. It is one thing that a lot of people have no desire to do, and it shows arrogance and ignorance to me. I have never seen the show you are talking about, but I do know that a lot of American Citizens do not care about other cultures. I will say that many of businesspeople I know really do take the time to learn about and adapt to other cultures. Even here in the states you would think people would be willing to learn and accept the other cultures we have right here, but unfortunately, they don't. I agree with you on doing research prior to traveling for leisure or business. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jenny Mitchell Jenny Mitchell Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 6:54pm Manage Discussion Entry I can agree with most of your post. One thing I don't agree with is your statement about blending in as much as possible. I believe if you mimic too much of someone else's culture it can be disrespectful. Not only disrespectful to their culture, but too your own. I think it should be about fitting in instead of blending in. There is another thing to keep in mind. If two individuals are speaking from different cultures, they are both in the same situation. Both need to have an understanding, acceptance, and respect of their differences. By all means, learn what you can to be respectful, without going too far. We are all individuals. A mutual understanding of that will help in communication. I would have a difficult time adjusting to one that I thought was understood around the world, the head nod and shake. Not only do I use the nod for yes, but I also use it for a sign of understanding or agreement as someone is speaking to me. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Dalton James Shad May Dalton James Shad May Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:43pm

Manage Discussion Entry Hey Audrey, your thoughts on dealing with different cultures, especially from watching "90 Day Fiancé: 'The Other Way'", highlight the need to get what's going on in local traditions. Your idea of doing your homework before traveling, like in Egypt, fits right into the whole cultural sensitivity thing. Recognizing early on about hand gestures and body language differences shows you're on top of avoiding any unintended awkwardness. Your take on potential workplace clashes due to different opinions is spot-on, and your easy tips for making a chill work environment by letting everyone speak their mind and ditching stereotypes are pretty cool insights into why understanding different cultures matters, both in everyday life and on the job. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Josiah Miracle Josiah Miracle Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 1:54pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello class, As it relates to some previous experiences, I had some knowledge about the different perceptions and meanings of different hand signals in other countries. With that being said, I didn't know the exact meanings of all of them so this article was definitely an interesting read. Two signals came as a bit of a surprise: headshake and thumbs up. I knew that the "thumbs up" could be used to signal to someone something like "up yours" or "sit on it". However, I thought that it was purely situational and that the signal itself was a sign of agreement universally. In terms of the headshake, I was entirely unaware that it was the opposite in certain countries. I think that is something that would be quite difficult to navigate since it is such an innate reaction. I find myself using a "yes" or "no" headshake all of the time, without even thinking about it. If I were to do business abroad in one of the countries in which the headshake has opposite meanings, I'm sure I would get myself in trouble. The best way to avoid that kind of mishap, however, is to research the nonverbal cues of other cultures. Understanding the meanings of these gestures before you get into a conversation is important. It ensures that the conversation can remain positive. I think another important difference in communication styles across cultures is how those different cultures view formality versus informality. Certain countries can be more formal throughout business dealings while others may allow conversations to devolve into something more informal. Critical thinking is very important in international business. It allows you to take a good look at your own biases and prejudices in an attempt to build

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cultural competence. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Hannah A Chlumsky Hannah A Chlumsky Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 7:11pm Manage Discussion Entry Hi Josiah, I agree completely about the head shake and thumbs up being a big surprise l. My mother hosts international students, and I believe that I’ve always felt like a good communicator when she has someone struggling with English. The amount of times I’ve communicated with nods and thumbs up and felt understood is ridiculous. This also led me to look into meanings of other commonly-used gestures, such as the peace sign our Japanese guests often flashed. That turns out to mean something different in that culture as well. It’s obvious to me that I need to educate myself further and be aware of my non-verbal cues when communicating with other cultures. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Clarice Elizabeth Fischer Clarice Elizabeth Fischer Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 5:54pm Manage Discussion Entry After reading this article I realized how I really don't know much of anything to do with other cultures gestures. I was unaware of any of the examples within the article. The ones that surprised me the most were thumbs up and nodding of the head. I thought they had a relatively universal meaning. I think those would be hard to navigate in the business world because we use those gestures very often in the United States. When navigating the business world in an international space it would be important to remember your tone such as sarcasm may not be perceived well across cultures. Even jokes or common phrases we use could be misconstrued and may be taken the wrong way. Critical thinking will help you to evaluate the behaviors and actions of people from other cultures when navigating the business space. It's important to make an effort to understand the different customs and cultures within the

business spaces you find yourself in. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Gregory Flynn Duvall Gregory Flynn Duvall Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 5:55pm Manage Discussion Entry What is your reaction to the article? My reaction to the article is that I knew most of these, but I am sure this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to gestures and other cultures. A couple of them were new to me but there so many differences between countries and cultures that almost nothing can surprise me anymore. That's why it is so important to do research when traveling or doing business presentations, you never know who will be in the audience. What was new? Most of these I knew from being in the military, we were taught a lot about different gestures and sign language from different areas of the world, one new one was the thumbs up in Australia, I did not know that it meant up yours there. What aspects of the article surprised you? I was surprised at how many gestures are not used as commonly as they are here, or for the same reasons, again with the thumbs up. What did you think about the various offenses mentioned? Some of them I can understand but most I think are hard to understand due to them meaning the opposite or completely different to us in the states. Which of these did you already know about? I knew about most of these from being in the military, we had to know what to do and not do in certain parts of the world. How can business professionals make sure they are ready to navigate differences in cultures? As a business professional I think if you need hand gestures and gestures at all it would be incredibly wise to study prior to traveling. In addition to hand gestures, what are some other areas or ways in which people will differ across cultures or countries within business settings? There are a lot of words, body language, displays of affection or friendship that are different all over the world. In Module 01, you considered how critical thinking skills support good business communication. How can critical thinking skills help you to communicate well across cultures? I think if you use critical thinking skills and do some research then accidentally using one of these offensive gestures is a lot less likely to happen. Reply

Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Hannah A Chlumsky Hannah A Chlumsky Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 7:51pm Manage Discussion Entry Gregory, I find it gratifying that the military trained you in cultural sensitivity, that’s wonderful. Was this standard for everyone to learn, or was it something for officers? I’m sure that preventing international incidents is a top priority. I agree with your assessment that a lot of misunderstandings can be avoided by research and using critical thinking, and that it might be wise to avoid gestures at all as much as possible. Thank you for your service and good luck with your continuing education! Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nancy Ellen Barnes Nancy Ellen Barnes Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:52pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello Gregory, I think it is really neat that the military trained you in cultural sensitivity. That defnitely gives you a heads up if you were to conduct business in other countries. Body language would defnitely be something to aware of. I agree that using critical thinking skills is very helpful. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Winter Helsel Winter Helsel Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 7:21pm Manage Discussion Entry

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My first reaction to reading the online article was confusion. It made me realize I know very little about other countries everyday lives and how their gestures differ to everyday gestures here in the United States. I think reading the article and putting it in a business perspective can show hard it can be to do business with other countries if you do not have the right knowledge of their culture. I think many business professionals can benefit from learning about another countries customs and ways of life before doing business with them to ensure they do not lack the proper knowledge and etiquette to make the business deal successful. Other than hand gestures some other things that may differ across business settings is body language. The way you communicate through body language is huge. If you’re slouching it could be considered rude or unprofessional in many countries. Another thing that may differ from business setting to business setting is eye contact. I read in an article for my International Business class last 8-weeks that some Chinese business owners find it rude to make harsh eye contact before creating a stable business relationship. Critical thinking skills can help you better connect professionally with other cultures because it allows you to build a welcoming environment by trying to understand how to help or where to help best. This can also help you see different point of views when it comes to making business decisions. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Josiah Miracle Josiah Miracle Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 11:26am Manage Discussion Entry Hello Winter, I like how you pointed out body language and eye contact as two major nonverbal communication methods that can be misconstrued in other countries. The example you provided about eye contact in China is actually very interesting to me. I had no idea that they were so particular about eye contact. I agree that critical thinking skills can help you to build a welcoming business environment. It allows you to better understand the cultures you will be working in and around. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Stacey L Beckner

Stacey L Beckner Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 2:13pm Manage Discussion Entry When I read the article I also realize how little I knew about other countries and how their gestures differ from ours. I agree that business professionals need to research the countries they plan to do business with. If I had to have a meeting with another country business professional I would have to research because I would not want to use the wrong gestures or body language. I did not know Chinese find it rude to make harsh eye contact before creating a stable business relationship. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Stacey L Beckner Stacey L Beckner Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 9:56pm Manage Discussion Entry The entire article was interesting. I didn't realize just hand gestures could have such a different meaning for the different cultures. Crossed arms was not new because when your in a conversation with someone and standing with your arms crossed it could be took as your not interested in the conversation or as being rude. I stand with my arms crossed all the time. I feel its more of a comfort reason. I was shocked that ok and thumbs up had such an offensive meaning for other cultures. The head shake also was shocking that it means the opposite for some cultures. The opposite meaning of the head shake could cause some issues if you didn't know that the meaning was different than our yes and no. To prevent misunderstanding business professionals should use critical thinking skills are research different cultures to have a good understanding of communication in different cultures. If a business professional uses the wrong body language, speech, hand gesture, and the way they dress it may cause conflict between the cultures. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Erika Campbell Erika Campbell Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 6:25pm

Manage Discussion Entry I also agree with you relating to the thumbs up and okay hand gestures meaning something negative and derogatory. This article made me realize that focusing more on the words is important when working with different cultures. I think that head shakes and nods would be my biggest challenge. I think I naturally nod my head when I am listening to someone talk and agreeing with them. Having to shake my head in agreeance would be difficult to change up. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Natalie Renee Douthit Natalie Renee Douthit Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:08pm Manage Discussion Entry I was very surprised by the difference of meanings in gestures. It definitely highlights the challenges of doing business globally. I was very surprised to find out that you can't give an Australian a thumbs up or cross your fingers for good luck in Vietnam. The gesture that I would find the hardest is shaking your head in Greece or Bulgaria. I constantly shake my head in agreement or disagreement and I can envision the confusion that would cause. I think the top problem doing business is crossed arms or head shaking . These are usually a very casual stance or a normal nonverbal response in America but to cause offense just standing still or confusion by nodding your head would be incredibly awkward especially if you do not speak the language to explain yourself. Critical thinking skills can benefit you in business setting by looking around the room and noticing things about the others. If you are about to cross your arms, taking a glance and noticing that no one else is might be a strong indicator to keep your arms at your sides. Taking the time to look up faux pa's in the country you are working in can save a lot of trouble as well. Doing thorough research on a place you are doing business is incredibly important because as we have learned, different cultures and regions can value different things than what we value in the states. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kimberly Adams Kimberly Adams Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 7:23pm Manage Discussion Entry

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Hello Natalie. I agree with the fact that not having any nonverbal communication is extremely awkward. Just seems like someone with crossed arms nodding and responding would be more appealing than someone who just stands there. I am often in meetings where I am required to read the room to decide where the conversation should go. Sometimes this is super helpful, but this also can lead to assumptions which isn't a good thing typically. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:09pm Manage Discussion Entry I found the article informative and interesting. One gesture I found surprising is the crossing of the arms in Finland. A case could be made in the U.S. that arm crossing can send a "closed off" or "unwelcoming" message but I found it very interesting that in Finland it's seen as far as aggressive. I did know of a few of these because of my large network of international friends but many were still surprising. In the business setting, I believe the headshake would be one to give professionals a hard time. This is something that most westerns due automatically and it would take active self-awareness. I believe professionals will also have a hard time with "thumbs up" during virtual meetings. I believe in Zoom there is even a thumbs up icon. Interesting to see how the differing cultures apply meaning to some of these gestures. I believe food does bring individuals together. However, every country and culture has differing dining etiquette. In some cultures, it is rude to leave food on your plate. This action is seen as wasting food in Japan and a lack of respect in India, where food is seen as sacred. While in other countries like China, emptying your plate means you did not receive enough or are not full. Another fun gesture I came across recently is the scrunching of the nose. In Honduras, where I'm from, it means something smells funny, or you're using it to point at someone or something. In Puerto Rico, according to a close friend, it means to indicate a question asking what happened or what is it. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kimberly Adams Kimberly Adams Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 7:18pm

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Manage Discussion Entry The crossing of arms still blows me away. I do this for comfort, and it will be so hard to break it. I also felt things we do in a positive light are taken very aggressively. I didn't even think about dining etiquette. However, that reminds me of princess diaries when she is learning all of these things. Royalty has to be good at all of these things at all times and they do prep for it to ensure no one is offended. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nancy Ellen Barnes Nancy Ellen Barnes Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:35pm Manage Discussion Entry I was definitely surprised by this article. I did find it interesting though that there are so many hand and physical gestures that are offensive to other countries. Knowing this now I would make sure to do my research before visiting another country. I would also think about what gestures I am making or about to make that may be offensive to others. I had no idea that the ok hand gesture was offensive. Greece, Spain and Brazil find it very offensive. Turkey it is an insult to gay people there. In other countries it means the A word. Some of the offenses i found odd but, I reminded myself that in other countries many of them have had these beliefs for many years. That many cultures believe different things and they typically view the United States as doing things different. What I found most surprising in this article is that shaking hands in Russia is considered offensive because it is believed to cause bad luck. I had already known that the hand gesture called the cutis was offensive this is where you flick your thumb from the back of your upper teeth. I did not know what called or what country it is was offensive in. Someone had told me about it once. I personally would not be able to conduct business in Finland. They find that crossing your arms is offensive, I have a really hard time not doing this gesture and find myself doing it a lot when I am nervous or have anxiety. I would be afraid that I would be doing it without knowing and cause offense to an important business partner. Therefore, before conducting business in another country businesses need to do their research and make sure that they are being respectful. Other examples besides hand gestures that may cause offense to another country are clothing, hair, makeup, cologne or perfume, and discussing religions. These may be disrespectful because of what their cultural beliefs are or their own personal religion. I believe that when to travel to another country. Especially when conducting business, you should present yourself in something that is deemed appropriate to their standards and beliefs.

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Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nancy Ellen Barnes Nancy Ellen Barnes Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:39pm Manage Discussion Entry (I forgot to answer this question) Critical thinking skills help communicate across many cultures by thinking before you make a gesture or communicate. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jacob M Atkins Jacob M Atkins Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 2:05pm Manage Discussion Entry Hey Nancy, I agree with you the "crossing the arms" gesture is something in our culture that is so natural especially in uncomfortable times. I would have a hard time in social situations especially in prolonged social events like a bar or restaurant. One thing that I know from Northern European culture is that it tends to be unexpressive and kind of plain faced. My grandpa, who is a 2nd generation immigrant from Sweden always was very stoic. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Stacey L Beckner Stacey L Beckner Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 2:25pm Manage Discussion Entry I would not be able to do business in Finland also because I stand with my arms crossed all the time. I cross my arms for the same reasons because of being nervous and having anxiety. I feel standing with my arms crossed is a comfort. I agree that countries need to be researched so you are professional when meeting with a business partner. I like your sentence that states, you should present yourself in

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something that is deemed appropriate to their standards and beliefs. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie May Kirby Melanie May Kirby Jan 24, 2024 Jan 24 at 11:41pm Manage Discussion Entry Before reading this article, I knew that hand gestures varied in meaning across the world, I just didn't know of any specifics. The only two I've heard of before were slapping your fist connoting a fight, as well as the forearm jerk. The most shocking gesture is probably the reversal of the headshake in Greece and Bulgaria, I had just assumed that was a universal gesture! Another surprising gesture was using feet in India. As a business professional, there are so many challenges when it comes to differences in culture. Professionals have to look at differences in communication (verbal and non-verbal), relationships, body language, networking, and many other areas. When it comes to navigating gestures in different countries, it's probably best to just avoid them altogether, unless you're aware of their meanings and take care to use them properly. In a business setting, you will likely navigate other cultures and have interactions with diverse groups. I think it's important to communicate with sensitivity, stay professional, avoid making assumptions, and always remember others will have cultural norms that differ from your own. It's impossible to know all the nuances of an entirely different culture, and that's where critical thinking becomes very important. If you can think critically, you can stay open-minded and receptive to other cultural norms. You can reflect on your ways of communicating and adjust the style according to the context of a situation. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jenny Mitchell Jenny Mitchell Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 6:02pm Manage Discussion Entry Of all the gestures in the world, I could never have imagined the head nod and shake being any different outside the United States. I believe that is one of the most important gestures when communication is hard. However, we have learned even that cannot be fully relied upon.

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This will be difficult for me. I usually do a slight nod as I'm taking in information. It's my gesture of listening and understanding. I definitely don't want to make someone think I'm saying no while they are speaking. I believe if someone is staying professional, most of the gestures we learned about won't even be used in a business setting. Even the completely innocent ones to us aren't appropriate for business. For instance, the one they call the fig, I call got your nose; stemming from the teasing game we play with toddlers. I have zero fear of using it by mistake. To me crossing my fingers, giving a thumbs up, or an ok sign would be fairly unlikely in a business setting. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie May Kirby Melanie May Kirby Jan 27, 2024 Jan 27 at 12:04am Manage Discussion Entry Jenny, I agree about the head nod, I tried to challenge myself not to do it during a conversation and couldn't, nodding is ingrained in my listening skills. As far as gestures in a business setting, I also agree that most of the gestures from the article would never be used in a professional setting. However, business settings aren't always cookie cut like we might envision in our heads (i.e. an office meeting). For example, if someone is giving a public presentation they may use a gesture unconsciously, like the ok symbol. Also, networking and relationship building is an extremely important part of building a business. Networking might look different across cultures and could be somewhat informal, such as going out to eat or visiting someone's home where informal gestures could potentially be used. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kimberly Adams Kimberly Adams Jan 25, 2024 Jan 25 at 7:13pm Manage Discussion Entry

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This article was very interesting. Oddly enough a few of these I knew from watching friends, a few from knowing someone deaf, and the rest were new. I found it interesting that things we often see as positive are very negative in other cultures. For me, the hardest two to navigate would be the yes and no nod or shake, and the crossed arms. I cross my arms out of comfort and I have often been told I come off cold due to this. It is something in meetings that I have had to work on. Now that I know I think practicing not using non- verbal communication will be super helpful. If I avoid things like talking with my hands there is less of a chance of it offending someone. I think critical thinking helps communication across cultures because its requiring you to say what you mean and for those listening to only analyze. Normally we focus on body language and less on what the person is saying. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Erika Campbell Erika Campbell Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 6:21pm Manage Discussion Entry I have to agree with you on your difficulty with crossing your arms. I cross mine a lot for comfort as well but also just when I am sitting back thinking. I have always been told that this is a sign that you are uninterested in what someone is saying and closing yourself off to them. This is not at all the case for me but it is always in the back of my head when I am in a professional setting. I would also find it challenging to remember that my head nods and shakes mean the opposite in other cultures. I am so accustomed to our way of interpreting no verbal cues that it would truly make me focus more on what is being said than what is being expressed. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jacob M Atkins Jacob M Atkins Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 12:19am Manage Discussion Entry I thought that the article was a interesting read. It is cool to learn about how different cultures communicate via body. Most of gestures I knew from my own culture and art but I was surprised how many meant something else. The history behind the gestures also surprised me, and how they can persist for so long. There were some gestures that made a lot of sense to me like the

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"talk to the hand" which is pretty disrespectful in our culture as well. I think the most challenging would be more subtle ones like how Greece and Bulgaria switch the head gestures for yes and no. Consulting would always be a good idea. Knowing whether the culture is expressive or not, group orientated or individualistic could also clue in on how to express yourself. One of the biggest differences that I have noticed is how information sharing is conceptually viewed different across cultures. I went to this international brainstorming event one time, and I noticed that each culture had a different way to present their ideas. For example, I remember that compared to the Americans, the African and Hispanic speakers had much more of an emphasis on their individual story and what brought them to where they are now. It caught me off guard at first because it was different from our culture where I feel like when presenting it is straight to the meat and potatoes. However I realized that in those cultures, telling your story can connect to people and therefore network better than a powerpoint ever could. Being able to look at what you say and do from different perspectives is the key to communicate. One of the elements of critical thinking is having a flexible attitude and perspective. Whenever I've met people from different cultures, it quickly becomes obvious to us both, and I think there's usually an honest effort from both parties to "meet halfway". Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Mayra K Garcia-O'Connor Jan 26, 2024 Jan 26 at 7:34pm Manage Discussion Entry Jacob, Your observation on the influence culture has in the way information is shared was very interesting. It’s would be interesting to explore this topic and understand how to utilize your own personal journey to influence your audience. I do agree with you that empathy is key. I would also include humility and a desired to learn. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Melanie May Kirby Melanie May Kirby Jan 27, 2024 Jan 27 at 12:19am

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Manage Discussion Entry Jacob, I agree! Being surrounded by culturally diverse individuals fosters an awareness of ourselves and others, I laughed at meat and potatoes. I think networking does come down to how well you can adapt to local customs. Recognizing nuances in language, nonverbal cues, and communication norms helps avoid misunderstandings and builds relationships. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jordan Drew Khoury Jordan Drew Khoury Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 8:48pm Manage Discussion Entry I agree with your emphasis on cultural competence training for business professionals. Understanding and respecting diverse communication styles is vital. The challenge of navigating nonverbal cues, as highlighted in the article, reinforces the importance of critical thinking in adapting to these differences. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Nathalia Louise Ferraren Teves Jan 27, 2024 Jan 27 at 10:43pm Manage Discussion Entry Some of these gestures make sense to me in terms of why some cultures consider one gesture insulting when contrasted to another. Gestures like the three finger salute and making the horn sign with your fingers are new to me; they're unusual. I can see why the three finger salute can be interpreted as a symbol of opposition to the country's military coup. It reminds me of the Nazis' antisemitic salute. Something as simple as lifting your hand in the air can convey a strong message. The horn sign is a cultural emblem in the US; many individuals attend concerts and use this hand signal at these events. With the "come over" signal, which Filipinos find offensive. That actually surprised me because it typically is used to call over a server at a restaurant. I was born in the Philippines, therefore I believe that this statement in the article was exaggerated: "this gesture is deemed so bad that you can actually get arrested for using it." Additionally, I thought exposing the soles of your feet in India or using them to point was very intriguing. According to the

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article, "Resist the urge to give yourself a pedicure in public, or you might be faced with some angry locals." That makes me wonder how their nail salons work if pedicures aren't common in India and people just get manicures. The gestures described in the article are all new to me. Two gestures that I believe might conflict in a business environment are the head shake in Greece and Bulgaria and the thumb up gesture in Australia. These two can easily be done by accident; we generally give a thumbs up to signal "job well done," so that may be problematic, and the head shake would be confusing in the opposite direction of what we normally do; shaking our heads sideways for yes and up and down for no would feel strange. Business professionals may overcome these differences by learning about different cultures and knowing the culture of the individuals they choose to conduct business with. At the end of the day, business is about building connections with people. People from various countries can differ in business settings in ways such as how they conduct their business, their dress code and appearance, their work life balance, and, most importantly, their communication styles, including hand gestures. Critical thinking skills can help us communicate effectively by avoiding bias and stereotypes, being culturally aware, adjusting to overcome barriers to communication, and developing a clear understanding of one another. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Byron Martinez Nunez Byron Martinez Nunez Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:30pm Manage Discussion Entry Hello Nathalia, I find it interesting that you are from the Philippines. It's nice to get an opinion from someone who is native to the country, as I would never have guessed that it was being exaggerated. I also enjoyed reading our critical thinking skills part of the discussion. I like how you mentioned the problem we are faced with and giving the results that people want to get from the skills they apply they can overcome the communication barrier that we are faced with. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jordan Drew Khoury Jordan Drew Khoury Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 8:48pm Manage Discussion Entry

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your point about the historical context behind gestures adds depth to the discussion. I also find the variation in meanings for common gestures intriguing. The challenge of overcoming these differences, especially in a business context, requires a nuanced approach and cultural sensitivity. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Victor Jose Torres Victor Jose Torres Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 4:08pm Manage Discussion Entry After reading this article I was very surprised to see that some of the gestures we use in the United States mean different things in other countries. Some aspects of this article that surprised me were some of the gestures that we use in the United States. Such as the crossing of fingers. Obviously we do that sign in the United States for good luck but in other countries, it means something derogatory. Another gesture that surprised me was the thumbs up. This is because in the US the thumbs up is very widely used to show your appreciation for someone or to tell someone they did a good job. In other countries though it isn't the most pleasant gesture. Some of these gestures I did already have an understanding of. For example the crossed arms gesture. I had already had an understanding that people may perceive that sign as being disrespectful. I also had an understanding that the chin flick wasn't the most respectful gesture. The most difficult thing to navigate as a business professional would be knowing what gestures you can and cannot use when going to different countries. Business professionals should make sure they study the culture that they are about to do business to make sure that they don't inadvertently offend them. Another way cultures may differ in a business setting could be the way they dress or also the way they greet each other. Another way could be where or how the meeting is held. Critical thinking skills can help you to communicate well across cultures because they help you think before you act. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Byron Martinez Nunez Byron Martinez Nunez Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:25pm Manage Discussion Entry

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Hello Victor, I really enjoyed reading your post, we have some common ground on the business professionals making sure they study the cultures. This I feel is one of the most important things to do this could be the make or break of a deal as a business professional because you want to initially make a good first impression. The critical thinking skills part as well that you mentioned is the exact way I would put it if I were to write the question out again. Just simply because I value thinking before I act so much more personally now than I did before. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Byron Martinez Nunez Byron Martinez Nunez Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:21pm Manage Discussion Entry My reaction initially to the article was that I was surprised. The differences in gestures between cultures surprised me the most honestly. In my opinion, it is one of those things you don't think about if no one mentions it. The various offenses mentioned on some of these are so specific I wonder about the backstory on them. The "crossed arms" and "slapping your fists" are the ones I already knew about. With the details presented, I think the shaking hands gesture is going to be the most challenging to navigate as a business professional. Simply, just because in the business world here in our culture is very common to say maybe close a deal, thank someone, present yourself to someone, or even just to show respect to a higher-up. To make sure business professionals are ready to navigate the differences in a culture they must do their research necessary beforehand. Some other areas or ways that differ in cultures or countries within the business settings I would say is the business etiquette side. Critical thinking skills can help you communicate well across cultures because it will allow you to assess the situation as presented to you. These skills will help you steer away from any conflict across different cultures. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Dalton James Shad May Dalton James Shad May Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 7:38pm Manage Discussion Entry

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The article delves into the cultural intricacies of hand gestures, revealing that seemingly harmless signals may be offensive in different countries. From the widely-used OK sign's different interpretation in the U.S. and Greece, Spain, and Brazil to specific gestures like the chin flick and the fig, the piece emphasizes the potential for unintentional missteps in cross-cultural interactions. Business professionals face the challenge of navigating these differences in non-verbal communication, necessitating cross-cultural training to avoid misunderstandings and foster successful international engagements. Understanding nuances beyond gestures, such as communication styles, punctuality norms, dress codes, negotiation methods, and hierarchical structures, is crucial for adeptly maneuvering through diverse business environments Critical thinking is vital for successful cross-cultural communication, fostering an understanding of diverse perspectives, discouraging stereotypes, and promoting an open approach. Adaptable communication styles, problem- solving abilities, and empathy aid in navigating cultural nuances and maintaining positive relationships. Active listening and continuous learning contribute to ongoing adaptation to diverse cultures and communication norms. In essence, critical thinking equips individuals for flexible, empathetic, and adept cross-cultural communication. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kinley Marie Simonton Kinley Marie Simonton Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 11:15pm Manage Discussion Entry Dalton, I think you summarized this article well by pointing out the potential for “unintentional missteps in cross-cultural communication.“ Navigating diverse gestures is crucial, especially the different interpretations of the OK sign. This was something I was surprised by, and will be more careful of in the future! Managing differences in communication styles, punctuality, and hierarchy is challenging- and isn’t something I considered before. So I am glad you pointed that out! Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Jordan Drew Khoury Jordan Drew Khoury Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 8:47pm

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Manage Discussion Entry The article highlights the challenges of nonverbal communication and gestures in cross-cultural interactions, emphasizing the potential for misunderstandings and unintentional offenses. It introduces lesser-known nuances in gestures, such as the fig gesture and head shake reversal, underlining the importance of cultural awareness for business professionals. The historical context of certain gestures and the surprising interpretations of seemingly innocent ones, like crossing fingers in Vietnam, are noteworthy. The article addresses known offenses but also introduces less familiar gestures, providing valuable insights for understanding cross-cultural communication challenges. Business professionals face the crucial task of mastering cultural nuances in gestures to avoid misinterpretations that can harm relationships. Navigating cultural differences requires preparation through cultural competence training, research on specific gestures, and guidance from local experts. The discussion extends beyond gestures, encompassing differences in communication styles, negotiation approaches, punctuality expectations, and hierarchical structures within business settings. Critical thinking skills play a pivotal role, enabling professionals to analyze situations, anticipate misunderstandings, and adapt their communication strategies to successfully navigate diverse cultural contexts. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kinley Marie Simonton Kinley Marie Simonton Jan 28, 2024 Jan 28 at 11:10pm Manage Discussion Entry Jordan, I agree that understanding gestures' cultural nuances is crucial for business success. As you mentioned, incorrectly using the head shake may create confusion when communicating. I agree that the best approach someone can take is to undergo cultural competence training and getting guidance from local experts! When doing business in familiar territory, these things may not be as important. But when a business person is completely unaware, their could be serious consequences. Reply Reply to Comment Collapse Subdiscussion Kinley Marie Simonton Kinley Marie Simonton Jan 28, 2024

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Jan 28 at 11:04pm Manage Discussion Entry When reading this article, it didn’t take long to stumble across something that surprised me. For example, the “okay” symbol is something I use several times a day. However- if I were in Greece, Spain, or Brazil- I would not want to use this gesture casually! Also, I found it very shocking the nodding your head for “yes” and shaking it for “no” is not a universal! I’m Greece and Bulgaria- these two are flipped. How confusing! At this same time, some of these gestures I was familiar with, but was unaware of the cultural/historical background. An example of this is the moutza, when you raise an open hand up to someone to signify displeasure. Interestingly, this originated from ancient peoples rubbing dung in the face of prisoners. As a business professional, you would not want to use gestures unless they are absolutely appropriate. Personally, I would not use the “okay” symbol when I am abroad- simply because of its offenses alternative meaning. If I was doing business in a super unfamiliar area, I would bring along a member of my team that is familiar with the culture and can help educate me on certain nuances. Aside from hand gestures, another cultural difference that may come up when doing business in another country is their view on gender roles. In some countries, it is typical for women to be more prominent in the home and less typical in the business world. So as a woman, it may be challenging to come across as an authoritative figure. Critical thinking skills are very important when fostering good communication as they enable you to analyze information and understand different perspectives Reply Reply to Comment

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M02 Discussion - Gestures & Global Contexts

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