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interview situations, experts advise mirroring an interviewer’s tendency to lean in and
settle back in her seat. The subtle repetition of the other person’s posture conveys that
we are listening and responding.
Touch

The meaning of a simple touch differs between individuals, genders, and
cultures. In Mexico, when doing business, men may find themselves being grasped
on the arm by another man. To pull away is seen as rude. In Indonesia, to touch
anyone on the head or touch anything with one’s foot is considered highly offensive.
In the Far East, according to business etiquette writer Nazir Daud, “it is considered
[9]
impolite for a woman to shake a man’s hand.” Americans, as we have noted, place
great value in a firm handshake. But handshaking as a competitive sport (“the bone-
crusher”) can come off as needlessly aggressive, at home and abroad.
Space
Anthropologist Edward T. Hall coined the term proxemics to denote the
different kinds of distance that occur between people. These distances vary between
cultures. The figure below outlines the basic proxemics of everyday life and their
meaning: [10]
Figure 12.14 Interpersonal Distances

Standing too far away from a colleague (such as a public speaking distance of
more than seven feet) or too close to a colleague (intimate distance for embracing)
can thwart an effective verbal communication in business.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Types of communication include verbal, written, and nonverbal. Verbal
communications have the advantage of immediate feedback, are best for

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