Заказ 29053 (200 грн.)

Communication strategies

Some information on cultural differences

Distancing and compromising are the key features of British and American communicative behaviour; their projections manifest themselves on practically every level of human interaction - physical and psychological, social and interpersonal, verbal and nonverbal. Unlike Ukrainians whose style of communication is largely determined by the context and the so called human factor, Britons and Americans tend to rely on strategies as their communication is highly ritualised and conventional. In conversations they emphasise formal aspects often at the expense of the content, avoid saying what they actually mean, demonstrate skin deep emotions - to maintain comfortable atmosphere, to avoid conflicts and save face.

Effective communication between Ukrainians and their English speaking partners could be based on the two A-s of politeness: Avoid directness and Avoid silence which help to keep proper distancing and follow unwritten rules and regulations.

Consider the mini case below, choose the best answer and give your reasons.

a) A Ukrainian reporter intended to publish a news story in a British magazine. He contacted the secretary and told her about the details. "Oh, how very exciting", she said, "I'll inform the person in charge, he'll have a closer look at your story". "Do you think I should come and speak in person?" asked the reporter. "No, I wouldn't think so, I'll ring you up and let you know his opinion", said the secretary. "What did her remarks actually mean?