In this seminar paper I will analyze the diverse functions and forms of non-verbal communication (NVC). In addition, I will focus on business context.
Business context in this paper means the realm of big companies with at least branches in two different cultures. Therefore, I have chosen five countries that Germany has a strong business interest in, and which have different socio-cultural frameworks: Saudi-Arabia, China, Japan, Russia, and Brazil.
The proceeding in this paper is that after explanatory notes to functions and types of NVC, I will show a photo of one notable business representative of each of the five countries. Based on these photos, I will illustrate the characteristic features of NVC in the respective country. Differences to German NVC will be lined out with special hints to potential pitfalls, causing severe economic consequences.
Finally, I will summarize the main issues of this paper, consider the results and come up with a conclusion.
The sources used for this paper are not only scientifically proven literature. For the definition of NVC in general, long-established surveys of prominent academics are available, like I. Eibl-Eibesfeldt (Similarities and Differences between Cultures in Expressive Movements), and M. Argyle (Non-verbal Communication in Human Social Interaction). To be responsive to the business related task of this paper, I also draw on “how-to books”, internet posts and a quality journal.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Definitions
- Verbal Communication vs. Non-Verbal Communication (NVC)
- Intercultural Business Context
- Functions of Non-Verbal Communication
- Types of Non-Verbal Communication
- Body Image
- Facial Expression
- Gestures
- Bodily Contact
- Olfactory Sensibility
- Understanding of Time
- Non-Verbal Communication in Intercultural Business Context
- Saudi Arabia (Modest Clothing and Impure Left Hand)
- China (Smile, Patience and Saving Face)
- Japan (Poker Face and Silence)
- Russia (Close Proximity and "Nyekulturny")
- Brazil (Rich in Gesture and Time Flexibility)
- Summary and Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This seminar paper aims to analyze the various functions and forms of non-verbal communication (NVC) in the context of intercultural business, focusing on the differences between German and other cultural norms. It examines how NVC can impact business interactions and potential pitfalls that could lead to economic consequences.
- Understanding the functions and types of non-verbal communication
- Analyzing the role of non-verbal communication in intercultural business contexts
- Identifying cultural differences in non-verbal communication across various countries
- Highlighting the potential impact of non-verbal communication on business interactions
- Exploring potential pitfalls and strategies for effective cross-cultural communication
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The paper begins by defining communication and differentiating between verbal and non-verbal communication. It then explores the diverse functions of NVC and classifies different types, such as body image, facial expressions, gestures, and understanding of time.
The paper then delves into the specific use of NVC in five countries: Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Russia, and Brazil, showcasing how their respective cultural frameworks influence non-verbal communication and how these differ from German norms.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key concepts explored in this paper include non-verbal communication, intercultural business context, cultural differences, body language, facial expressions, gestures, time perception, Saudi Arabia, China, Japan, Russia, Brazil, and potential pitfalls in cross-cultural communication.
- Quote paper
- Julia Mero (Author), 2015, The Role of Non-Verbal Communication in Intercultural Business, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/308550
