An intercultural communication concept that I chose to explore in regard to Ugandans is direct versus indirect style of communication. According to Martin and Nakayama (2010), “A direct communication style is one in which verbal messages reveal the speaker’s true intentions, needs, wants, and desires” (p. 228). Martin and Nakayama also state, “An indirect style is one in which the verbal message is often designed to camouflage the speaker’s true intentions, needs, wants, and desires” (p. 228). In indirect communication, the truth is mainly revealed through nonverbal signals. Communicating indirectly is often considered as “beating around the bush.”
“Ugandans tend to communicate more indirectly than directly” (Culture Crossing, n.d.). For example, in Uganda, the listener is expected to have an implicit knowledge of what the speaker is talking about, as they often communicate through stories and proverbs (Culture Crossing, n.d.). In the United States, which contains a direct style of communication, it would most likely be seen as strange if someone tried to communicate with you using a story or proverb. Another example of how Ugandans communicate indirectly is the way they conduct business. “Greetings and a good amount of small talk always occur before talking about business” (Culture Crossing, n.d.). I am in a couple of business communication courses, and I have been learning that business communication in the United States is typically expected to be brief and to the point. Small talk before giving a presentation would not be looked upon kindly.
When engaging in future interactions with Ugandans, it is important to remember that they prefer indirect communication. For example, never ask a Ugandan something up front, such as directions, but instead begin with a greeting (Kabiza, 2011). Doing something as simple as beginning a conversation with a greeting will help outsiders create a more positive impression. It is also important to remember to remain patient. Because Americans are used to direct communication, it can be easy for us to get impatient with indirect communication. Just remember that with Ugandans, most signs of direct communication are taken as disrespectful. Keeping the qualities of indirect communication in mind when engaging in communication with Ugandans will help facilitate future intercultural interactions.
References
Culturecrossing.com. (n.d.). Uganda. Retrieved on October 24, 2011 from culturecrossing.com.
Martin, J. N., & Nakayama, T. K. (2010). Intercultural Communication in Contexts. New York, NY: McGraw Hill.
Kabiza.com (2011). Conversation Uganda Style. Retrieved on October 24, 2011 from kabiza.com.
