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by Sandy Cameron
As the United States population becomes more diverse and
camps employ more international staff, the issue of communicating and
interacting effectively with people from other cultures becomes more important.
Having respect for cultural differences and learning basic characteristics
of other cultures can help you avoid misunderstandings and unintentionally
offending others.
Effective Communication
Communication is an area that can be especially challenging
for those uninformed about cultural differences. A simple nod of the head
or smile may be interpreted as something you had not intended.
For example, around the world a smile can relay many emotions,
not just happiness or pleasure as in the U.S. In Japan, people smile when
they are sad, angry, confused, and happy. Asians smile to show disagreement,
anger, confusion, and frustration. Some people from Japan and Asia will
not smile for official photos, such as passport photos, because these
are considered serious occasions and they do not want to look as though
they are not taking the situation seriously.
Eye contact varies around the world as well. If a staff
member will not look you in the eye when speaking, do not take it as an
insult. People from any Asian and Latin American cultures avoid direct
eye contact as a sign of respect.
Overcoming language barriers
Language differences can make communication difficult, but
if you are creative you can find ways to communicate effectively.
Talk slowly and clearly. It may sound simplistic, but don't
shout at people if they don't understand what you are saying. Restate
the statement in a different way or repeat it more slowly. Use other methods
of communication, such as making drawings, demonstrating or acting out,
or using hand motions.
When speaking, avoid using slang and common idioms. Idioms,
such as "in the long run," "no kidding," or "barking
up the wrong tree," can cause confusion for non-native English speakers.
Also, explain common camp phrases to staff members. Most probably won't
be familiar with phrases you use every day.
Try to learn a few common phrases in the languages of your
international staff and campers. This shows you are interested and helps
them to feel more comfortable.
Many cultures have difficulty saying "no" to a
request, and some internationals may say "yes" when their answer
is really "no." Carefully phrase questions so that they can
be answered positively. For example, say "What can I do to make your
time at camp more pleasant?" instead of asking "Do you like
it here at camp?"
Names and Time
People in the U.S. generally call others by their first
names, but this is not true of all cultures. Ask staff and campers how
they would like to be addressed. Make sure to call them by their real
name, not he U.S. equivalent or nickname unless they prefer it. If you
have difficulty saying their name, ask for the correct pronunciation.
Explain your expectations in regard to time and punctuality.
Cultural background influences what people consider to be on time, late,
and early. Make sure up front that staff members know when you expect
them to be at their job.
Food and Dining
What and when people eat varies around the world. Many cultures
eat the main meal at midday and have a light meal in the evening.
Some traditional camp fare may seem unusual to international
campers and staff. For example, marshmallows (and s'mores for that matter),
watermelon (and spitting seeds), hot dogs, and corn on the cob may cause
internationals to raise their eyebrows in curiosity. In many countries,
corn - especially on the cob - is fed only to animals. Take the time to
explain certain foods and the corresponding customs, and understand if
staff and campers choose not to eat a particular item.
Just as you explain unfamiliar foods, ask about foods common
in your staff's home country. Consider having a special evening where
foods from their countries are served. Make an effort to have these traditional
food items available for your international staff to eat, but keep in
mind that the U.S. versions of many Chinese, Italian, and Mexican dishes
are very different from what is served in those countries. Ask staff what
foods they would like and, if possible, allow them to prepare the dishes
themselves.
Some cultures will not take food the first time it is offered.
Try offering the item at least two more times to ensure everyone has had
a chance to try a dish. Also, many Asians and Saudi Arabians make noise
when eating to show their appreciation for the food. Be sure to interpret
this as a compliment, not as bad manners.
Learning about other cultures and having respect for differences
can go a long way in creating successful relationships. Be objective,
have an open mind, and your camp will benefit from an international influence.
Hand Gestures Around the World
These common hand gestures have different meanings in countries around
the world.
- American OK symbol: considered obscene, offensive, or vulgar
in Brazil
- Nod of the head: means "no" in Bulgaria and Greece,
in most other
countries it means "yes"
- Thumbs up: considered rude in Australia, Afghanistan, Nigeria,
and some other
Middle Eastern countries; means OK in most other countries
- Crooked index finger (come here gesture): considered an obscene
gesture
in Japan, used to call animals in Yugoslavia and Malaysia, used to summon
prostitutes in Australia, and considered a threatening symbol to children
in Southeast Asia
Originally published in the 2000 July/August
issue of Camping Magazine. |
