10 Traits of Low-Context Communicators

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Low-context communication can be defined as communication that is more direct, specific, and to the point. Words spoken can often be interpreted and understood literally, with fewer intricate factors considered.

Low-context communication often contrasts with high-context communication, which is more indirect and ambiguous.

Based on the work of anthropologist Edward Hall, regions in the world where low-context communication is prevalent include (and are not limited to): Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Norway, New Zealand, Sweden, and the United States.

Even though each culture is distinct and complex in its own way, and communication styles are further differentiated by factors such as language, tradition, and custom, a general understanding of low-context communication can be a starting point for recognizing and navigating cross-cultural differences in romantic and workplace relationships.

Below are ten traits of low-context communicators, with references from my book How to Bridge Cultural Communication Differences: East and West:

1. Low-context communicators tend to "say what they mean.” It is a form
of linear communication, which speaks directly to rather than around the point.

“Get to the point.”

“Stop beating around the bush.”

“Cut to the chase.”

— Common low-context sayings

2. Low-context communicators often begin with the main point, followed by supporting details.

3. Low-context communication is often verbally clear, specific, precise
and complete.

4. Low-context communication is often sequential and geared towards compartmentalizing ideas.

5. Low-context communicators prefer to handle problems directly. Open discussions, disagreements, and even confrontations are often seen as part of the problem-solving process. They tend to feel greater permission to discuss issues directly and specifically with both peers and superiors. While the more direct approach may have advantages, it can also lead to greater conflict and tension.

6. Low-context communication tends to offer praise to individuals over groups. Individual achievement and credit are only minimally (if at all) reflected onto the group she or he belongs to.

7. Low-context communicators tend to take greater initiative in getting their efforts and accomplishments noticed. They depend primarily on themselves to gain recognition and are more likely to “sell themselves” in order to gain visibility, reputation, and promotion.

8. In low-context cultures, agreements, contracts, and job descriptions are often precisely spelled out in writing, which can be legally binding.

9. In low-context communication, silence is less valued. Silence is often seen as a weakness. Silent people are often perceived as having nothing to say and lacking strength or confidence. In a low-context culture, people who do not speak up tend to be ignored, invisible, and
taken advantage of.

“The squeaky wheel gets the grease.”

— Common saying in the U.S.

“It is tact that’s golden, not silence.”

— Samuel Butler

10. A low-context communicator sometimes finds it difficult to speak with a high-context communicator, as the low-context communicator typically dislikes ambiguity and finds the lack of precise information from the high-context communicator frustrating.

For more tips on how to successfully navigate cross-cultural communication situations, see references below.

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