IMPACT OF CULTURE ON NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS
Culture influences non-verbal communications as much of the gestures, expressions etc result from „clan culture‟. Besides, experts in communication are now convinced that non-verbal communications play a very critical role in every day living:
They form an integral part of oral, face-to-face communications
They form the backbone of written communication in terms of layout and other visual aspects of written communication
In modern business communications, non-verbal communications can be at the conscious and unconscious levels. Managers must be conversant with both to be able to use them effectively in cross-cultural interactions.
(1) Conscious forms of non-verbal communications
There are several aspects of conscious non-verbal communication that help to create the „first impression‟ on the people. Although these aspects are largely influenced by the climate and other specific conditions, local culture has a profound impact on:
(i) Dress
Most people form opinions about others in the first seven seconds of their meeting. A good sense of dressing contributes greatly to making the right first impression. Dressing appropriately is an art that needs to be acquired although changes in dress codes are happening in many countries rather fast because as the world globalizes, dress sense is also becoming global.
The dress should also include footwear, accessories and even cosmetics/perfumes used.
(a) Business Attire for men
A professional dress may include a suit, trousers, sportscoat, shirt with collar, necktie, etc. Many companies are allowing staff to wear the casual dress at work once a week. This may include sports shirts, polo shirts, trousers, sweaters that can be stylish as well as comfortable.
(b) Business Attire for women
Attires for businesswomen include dresses, suits, skirts no shorter than three inches above the knees, pants with blouses, etc. Inappropriate dresses are too tight or too loose blouses, sleeveless, denim, shorts, backless/strapless dresses, sweatshirts, hats, etc.
Jewelry, accessories etc should be minimal. It is better to stick to ear studs; makeup, to suit but should appear natural.
(ii) Grooming
Besides dressing properly, one should not forget to wear his smile. Remember that one is not dressed for the day until he has worn his smile. Attitude at work should be positive, cooperative and willing to accept responsibilities.
(iii) Business cards
A business card is the ones‟ calling card. It represents the person when he is not there; it speaks of the person and his business. Ensure that the business card is attractive, appealing and easy to read. It should convey the message that the person wants people to remember.
(iv) Handshake
A handshake is a common form of greetings when one meets someone. Ones‟ style of handshake tells a lot about him. The correct form of the handshake is „to keep thumbs up and toughing webs before wrapping the fingers around the other persons‟ hand. While introducing oneself, the person is expected to offer his hand irrespective of the man or woman except in certain cultures that prohibit women from shaking hands with men.
Other forms of greeting like embracing or kissing on the cheeks should be avoided in business gatherings.
