Nonverbalcommunication

in Russia, Japan and

China

Non verbalcommunication in Russia

Non verbal communication in Russian Business

PunctualityFace to

Face meetings

Business deals tend to be a

lengthy process

Patience

Non verbal communicatio

n in Russia

A handshake is always appropriate when greeting or leaving

The “ok” sign is considered a very rude gesture in Russia Public physical contact is common. Hugs, backslapping,

kisses on the cheeks are common among friends or acquaintances and between members of the same sex

Russians stand close when talking When a Russian touches another person during

conversation, it is usually a sign of confidence. Speaking or laughing loudly in public is discouraged

Nonverbal communication in Russia

Businessmen in Russia usually wear suits that are dark and well tailored along with good dress shoes. A businessman’s wardrobe demonstrates the individual’s image as a professional

Men often do not take off their jackets in negotiations Do not stand with your hands in your pockets (this is

considered rude) Women dress rather conservatively, avoiding overly flashy

or gaudy outfits

Take care about your appearance in a Russian meeting

Talking too loudly : Russians find this uncultured to speak so loud that everyone car hear your conversation (as Americans do)

Smiling too much : Russians do smile but they do so only when they have a reason. They find constant smiling false and a bit silly

Apologizing all the time : Don't say "I'm sorry," when someone gives you bad news. Try the more clear "That's a shame." Save "I'm sorry" for when you've actually done something to offend someone

Being False : Russians value honesty, even brutal honesty, much more than niceties. Be open and honest, and it will be much appreciated

Making Snap Judgments : Russian national pride runs deep. Think twice before making overly negative comments about Russia. Remember, you are a guest here

Be aware about some important points in communication with Russian people

Non verbal communication in Japan

Conversational overlaps and interruptions :◦ Pointing with the index finger is considered rude. You should point with the

entire hand. ◦ Avoid physical contact◦ Frowning while someone is speaking is interpreted as a sign of disagreement.

Most Japanese maintain impassive expression when speaking◦ Laughing. Women hide their mouth because of tradition◦ Japanese find it hard to say 'no'. The best solution is to phrase questions so

that they can answer yes. For example, do you disagree with this?

The use of silence:◦ To ask someone to get closer◦ Saying „I“ or „my“◦ „I have no idea“◦ The way to say goodbye◦ Greeting with reference depending on the respect◦ Ask for silence. Japanese people put their forefinger in front of their mouth

NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION IN JAPAN

Eye Contact : ◦ Eye contact shows that you are being aggressive, and rude. It is

normal in Japan to avoid eye contact as it shows respect

Touching : ◦ Asking permission to pass by. Shaking the hand in vertical

position in front of the body◦ When entering a private home or traditional restaurants, it is

usually customary to remove your shoes and place them with the toes pointing toward the outdoors

Other important information :

◦ Walking habits: The Japanese walk in short quick strides and drooping shoulders this low posture is called teishisei.

◦ They don’t show any emotion while talking.

Non verbal communication in China

Eye Contact : ◦ For the Chinese, a lack of steady eye contact is not an indication of lack

of attention or respect. Because of the authoritarian nature of the Chinese society, steady eye contact is viewed as inappropriate, especially when subordinates talk with their superiors

Conversational overlaps and interruptions :◦ Never use your index finger to beckon anyone. If you need to call a

Chinese person, face the palm of your hand downward and move your fingers in a scratching motion.

◦ Chinese don‘t point with the index finger but with an open hand.◦ During conversations, be especially careful about interrupting –

Listening is a sign of politeness and of contemplation.

The use of silence :◦ Chinese tend to smile easily when they feel difficulty or embarrassed.

Smile because of embarrassment by a Chinese might be interpreted as being friendly by a westerner, but not for Chinese.

NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION IN CHINA

Touching : ◦ The Chinese don‘t like being touched by strangers. Therefore

don‘t make any body contact◦ Personal contact must be avoided at all cost. It is highly

inappropriate for a man to touch a woman in public◦ Tipping is considered insulting, however the practice is becoming

more common

Other important information :◦ Do not use large hand movements. The Chinese do not speak

with their hands. Your movements may be distracting to your host.

◦ Jeans are not acceptable for business meetings.◦ Revealing clothing for women is considered offensive to Chines

businessmen