Japan is a high-context culture. This means:
— Communication tends to be indirect, harmoniously structured and understated.
— In conversation, people are expected to speak one after another in an orderly, linear fashion.
— Disagreements are personally threatening. It is important to solve conflict immediately or avoid it completely in order for work to continue.
— Physical space is considered more communal. Standing very close to others is a common practice.
— Verbal messages are indirect. Speakers often talk around a point (instead of directly to it) and use embellishments to convey meaning.
— Accuracy is valued. How well something is learned is important.
America is a low-context culture. This means:
— Communication tends to be linear, dramatic, precise and open.
— Because words are so highly valued, they are used almost constantly.
— Disagreements are depersonalized.
— Conflicts do not have to be resolved immediately for work to continue. When solutions are found, they tend to be rationally based.
— Privacy and personal space are highly valued. Physical space is considered privately owned.
— Verbal messages are explicit and direct.
— Words are valued above their context.
— Speed is valued. How efficiently something is done is important.
