Lesson 2

All cultures have stereotypes or preformed ideas about other cultures. These stereotypes generalize the main characteristics of a group of people and can get in the way of communication when people interact on the basis of the imaginary, generalized picture and not on reality.

The stereotypical American, for example, is a straightforward, get-to-the-point, aggressive-in-business person for whom “time is money.” On the other hand, the American in everyday life is perceived as easygoing, loud, friendly, and smiling.

It should be stressed that one must not jump to conclusions based on such stereotypes. All individuals are different, and stereotypes, though true to some extent, are often exaggerated and generalized.

schedule [`Sedju:l] / [`skeGu:l]

whereas [weər`xz]

delay [dı`leI]

nonchalant [`nOn<sup>t</sup>Sələnt] / [ֽnα:nSə`lα:nt]

toward [tə`wLd] / [tLrd]

impatient [ım`peıS^ənt]

Different perceptions of time can also lead to misunderstanding.

American straightforwardness, for instance, leads Americans to make strict schedules, appointments, and arrangements whereas in Ukraine delays in meeting visitors and in responding to correspondence are not uncommon. However, a Ukrainian partner who is late for an appointment will probably then spend more time with you than originally scheduled. The same nonchalant attitude toward time can be found in Mexico. We can say that there exist two perceptions of time in Ukraine or in Mexico: the time on the clock and “Ukrainian time” or “Mexican time” – that is, “when I get there.”

The Japanese, knowing that North Americans are impatient, use time to their advantage in negotiations. Perhaps they think: “You Americans have one terrible weakness. If we make you wait long enough, you will agree to do anything.”