To communicate well with other people, you must learn to speak well, right?
Yes, but speaking isn’t everything. Some experts say only 30 percent of communication comes from talking.
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When you have to meet someone from a different culture, be prepared. Do you know what kind of gestures and customs are proper? If you understand cultural differences, you’ll be a better communicatoreven before you open your mouth!
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In many Western cultures, men stand up before they are introduced to someone important. Standing up shows politeness and respect.
But in the East, typical introductions often begin and end with bowing rather than shaking hands. Sometimes even a small nod of the head is enough.
wow gold Some Westerners visiting Asia misunderstand not shaking hands as a sign of unfriendliness. Such a mistake could be harmful to the start of a new friendship. Americans like a firm handshake. But the French prefer a light, short handshake. If you shake a Frenchman’s wow gold hand the American way, he may think you’re uncultured.
People in Eastern European countries and some Latino cultures prefer shorter handshakes, too. Hugging after shaking hands is also a common introduction. Don’t be scared if you meet someone in Brazil and he gives you a hug. If you misunderstanding this gesture, your friendship may get off on the wrong foot ! ffxi gil
The proper customs for eye contact vary between cultures, too. Westerners appreciate regular eye contact during conversations. Although it might seem as they’retired or bored, such behavior is normal and should not be taken personally. aion gold
Is everything OK?
Everyone around the world knows the “OK” hand gesture, don’t they? Be careful not to pretend to know too much!
In Spain, parts of South America and Eastern Europe, the OK sign is considered rude. If you go shopping in Japan, it means you’d like your change in coins instead of bills. In France, making the OK sign means you think something is worthless.
Even a gesture as common as the OK sign may not be universally understood. Check before you use it or you may embarrass yourself.