How different cultures talk

[Canuck]

I love watching Canadians argue... I mentally insert an "I'm Sorry" for you guys each time your opinion differs, because, dang it if you Maple Leafs aren't the friendliest, most polite folks I have ever run across...

Canada's in an interesting position, because we understand both American and European. A lot of my job involves translating among cultures.

(To a European) "No, she does respect your work, and she isn't about to fire you. Americans just think that if they talk aggressively like that, it will push you to take more risks and produce more. She expects you to push back just as hard, and won't take that as disrespect."

(To an American) "Actually, he did speak up. He stated his concerns once, politely, then left it to you, as boss, to decide whether to act on them. Continental Europeans generally don't repeat themselves or talk loudly to indicate that something's important to them. They make a careful argument, once, and expect you to listen and then exercise your authority as you see fit."

(To an African) "No, the fact that they didn't ask about your family and offer you refreshment at the start of the meeting isn't meant to show disrespect. Europeans and North Americans like to jump straight into business, and don't realise that they're being impolite."

(To an Australian) "It will all look better after another beer."


D

 

[Leigh]

 

[cappy48]

 

[ksykes]