Understanding the nuances of polychronic cultures for effective communication
Working effectively with people from diverse backgrounds in terms of culture is a critical component of success in today’s globalized world. One of the critical aspects to consider when communicating with people from different cultures is the aspect of time management, which can vary significantly across cultures.
Polychronic cultures refer to cultures where time management is more flexible, whereas monochronic cultures are those where time is viewed as a scarce resource. Polychronic cultures view time as flexible and subject to change, whereas monochronic cultures view time as absolute and linear.
Here are some nuances that are unique to polychronic cultures that can impact communication:
Relationships matter more than time
In polychronic cultures, relationships are more important than adherence to schedules or time management. In these cultures, people place a high value on developing strong relationships rather than focusing on schedules or timelines. As a result, it might take more time to build relationships and establish trust, which can ultimately lead to better outcomes in the long run.
Communication is contextual and indirect
In polychronic cultures, direct communication is less prized than communication that takes place in context and with an indirect style. Rather than bluntly saying “no” or “yes”, people from such cultures will use a range of indirect ways to communicate the same message. For example, instead of a direct “no,” they might say, “I’ll think about it,” which often means no.
Personal space and physical touch are important
Polychronic cultures often value physical touch and personal space more than monochronic cultures. It is essential to be aware of such culture’s physical boundaries to avoid offending anyone unintentionally.
Concepts of time and punctuality differ
In polychronic cultures, time is not viewed as a scarce resource; instead, it is viewed as something that can create itself. This view means that punctuality is less valued than in monochronic cultures. Therefore, it is common to delay or reschedule meetings or appointments.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of polychronic cultures is critical to effective communication in diverse workplaces. It helps to be aware that people from such cultures view time differently and that building strong relationships might take priority over adhering to schedules. Furthermore, direct communication may not always be the norm, and being familiar with the culture’s personal space, physical touch, and concept of time will help avoid any misunderstandings when working in a diverse workplace.
