| A review of the anthropological and linguistic literature points to the limitations of language in human interactions. Yet in many settings where people of different cultures meet--e.g. for purposes of training and development, counseling, conflict resolution, and business exchanges--intercultural communication tends to be highly reliant upon verbal and written discourse. This study investigates how use of nonverbal communication strategies is valuable to management and training and development efforts across cultures. Therefore, one research objective explores whether there are certain identifiable characteristics of nonverbal communication (NVC) having potential universal value to training efforts in diverse cultural environments. Another objective questions how nonverbal cues can be utilized as heuristic tools of analysis of differences across cultures--i.e., how can we utilize nonverbal cues as a vehicle to access and understand cultural differences?; While this is a qualitative research study done in an organizational setting, it has implications for other scenarios: Recommendations include consideration of NVC strategies for curricular materials for schooling at all levels, and as an assist to future negotiators and conflict management facilitators. Primary research methods employed in this case study are interview and observation. |
