Non-Verbal Communication in the Workplace

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that studying the effects of non-verbal communication in the workplace is more important than ever in today's multicultural world because each ethnic group brings their own culture into the workplace. The paper points out that one of the most common uses of non-verbal communication in the workplace is by supervisors and others with high status, who use non-verbal symbols of their status and authority, either consciously or not, to remind those below them of their high position. The paper relates that, in some workplaces, because non-verbal communication can differ so greatly between cultures, management has introduced cultural sensitivity training.

From the Paper:

"Latinos are one of the fastest growing cultural groups in American workplaces today. Therefore, it is of particular importance for both Anglos and Latinos to each understand the others' nonverbal communication styles. Latinos have several nonverbal communication devises particular to their culture that Anglos do not use. For example, Latinos have a much smaller realm of what is considered personal space. In Anglo cultures, this personal space is between eighteen and thirty inches, while in Latino cultures it is between eight and eighteen inches. This sharp difference in acceptable personal space can cause huge discomfort and misunderstanding for both parties if it is not understood and acknowledged on both sides."

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