In my previous article I talked about the lack of the ability to properly communicate in a business environment. One common trait of a business communicator from a low context culture is the tendency to talk down to people and explain what you need. This type of communication is a problem, because it prevents you from really listening and getting the message behind what you are saying. Instead, you just end up communicating back which perpetuates your negative image and prevents you from helping your team.
- It is easy to tell when someone does not really care.
- They will usually speak down to you and use language that is not familiar to you.
- They tend to use ‘slang’ instead of using the correct term for something.
- All of these things and more can be indicators of a low respect for the business you work for.
On the other hand, a business that truly has high cultural value will have a strong and positive communication process. When this occurs, it allows for all parties to communicate freely and objectively about the business and their roles within it. You will notice that this type of communication process is actually built into the culture. You don’t need to come up with special phrases or code words. Rather, you just need to listen and let the person give their honest opinion.
Another common trait of a business communicator from a low context culture is being afraid to make a request. A manager in a low context culture does not like to delegate. Because of this, they feel as though they are being forced to do it or make a decision on their own. The result is that they are afraid to ask for help, delegate, or make changes on any sort of organizational level.
A business communicator from a low context culture may also be afraid to communicate for fear of damaging the relationship. As mentioned before, communication is a key element in every business. This concept extends to leaders as well. In order to be a good leader, you must be open to communication with people on all levels. The same applies to a manager as well.
This brings us to the last common trait of a business communicator from a low context culture. The bottom line is that a person from such a culture should be open and communicate effectively. If a business communicator does not do so, then he or she is not truly an effective leader. But that certainly does not mean that such a person cannot lead or even be a good leader at some point in their career.