IVM English

In Malcolm Gladwell’s book “Outliers”, he talked about transmitter vs receiver oriented languages.

In the book Gladwell wrote: “Western communication what has linguists call a “transmitter orientation – that is, it is considered the responsibility of the speaker to communicate ideas clearly and unambiguously. Within a western cultural contest, which holds that if there is confusion, it is the fault of the speaker.
But Korea, like many Asian countries, is receiver oriented. It is up to the listener to make sense of what is being said.”

A friend of mine asked me if I feel that she is too direct when it comes to communication. She said one of her Asian colleagues told her that her directness could be perceived as bossiness and suggested her to work on indirect communication skill.
I have lived in the UK for more than twenty years and I have adopted the way British people communicate but it still bothers me sometimes when it comes to communicate with Westerners.

To communicate clearly and unambiguously, I have learned to speak more directly but sometimes I do feel it’s a bit bossiness. Indirect communication takes more efforts to get to the point to make people understand but it is more friendly approach. However, to choose a direct or an indirect communication is up to the people you meet and the situation you are in. It is not a simple decision.

Do you have similar experience?

3 years ago (edited) | [YT] | 3

IVM English

Instead of just receiving, you need to get involved in your learning.

3 years ago | [YT] | 2

IVM English

It's your call.

3 years ago | [YT] | 3

IVM English

Make a habit of doing the things that you would like to achieve every day. For example, learn ten new words every day.

3 years ago (edited) | [YT] | 3

IVM English

Set a goal today.

3 years ago | [YT] | 4