Manners and mannerisms as factors in international communication

The author discusses the effects of manners and mannerisms as helps-or hindrances-to communication. It is pointed out that cultural variables often distort the intended meaning for a person from a different culture. Misinterpretation of a nonverbal cue or the proper interaction distance sends false messages. Therefore, the traditional imperative for communications, know your audience, applies in international communication with even more force than in local affairs: a communicator should delve into the manners of the target culture. It is argued that a few qualities seem to transcend cultures and tend to help the exchange of intercultural information, namely kindness and empathy. It is concluded that a communicator who sincerely smiles and listens has a better chance of communicating than one who does not.<>