In our book club, we explore books that engage us in the present moment. Currently, our curiosity is directed towards the fascinating topic of intercultural communication. This has led us to select “Getting Your Voice to Shake” as our current read—an accessible choice for anyone intrigued by the subject.
Overview: “Getting Your Voice to Shake” by Kelly Nix offers a concise yet insightful exploration of intercultural communication beyond the typical business-centric perspective. Nix delves into the societal aspects of this field, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and nuances encountered in cross-cultural interactions.
Synopsis: In this practical guide, Nix starts with a captivating introduction recounting his struggles to connect with truckers on the CB Radio, illustrating the complexity of intercultural communication. The author emphasizes that knowing the words alone is insufficient; understanding cultural traits is equally crucial.
Key Points:
- Collectivism: Nix introduces the concept that people often identify first as part of a group, emphasising the significance of understanding collective identities in intercultural communication.
- High Context vs. Low Context: The book explores the distinction between high-context cultures, where non-verbal communication holds great importance (common in collectivist societies), and low-context cultures, where communication is explicit and straightforward.
- Monochronic vs. Polychronic: Nix discusses the cultural differences in the perception of time. Monochronic cultures prioritize doing one thing at a time, valuing punctuality as time is seen as money. In contrast, polychronic cultures prioritize people over schedules, embracing a non-linear view of time and often engaging in multitasking.
Recommendations for Further Reading: For those eager to delve deeper into intercultural communication, Nix suggests exploring the works of Edward T. Hall, providing an avenue for additional insights and perspectives.
When It comes to culture, different is not necessary wrong. It is just different. Don’t waste your time trying to turn someone from another culture into an America, or Canadian , or Australian, or Chinese, Brazilian or Angolan or whatever your own culture of origin may be. That expresses to them that their culture is somehow less desirable than your. It is also an exercise in futility. Instead learn to communicate with them within their culture as someone who is different but equal
Kelly Nix – Getting Your Voice to Shake
“Getting Your Voice to Shake” stands out as a valuable resource, offering practical guidance that extends beyond the business realm and resonates with readers seeking a broader understanding of intercultural communication. The author’s personal experiences add a relatable touch, making this book an engaging and informative read for anyone interested in navigating the intricacies of cultural interactions.
- Publisher : CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
- Language : English
- ISBN-10 : 1541002660
- ISBN-13 : 978-1541002661
