Nonverbal Messages
Britannica defines nonverbal communication as the “transfer of information from one person to another without the use of words or spoken language. It can occur in a variety of ways, including through facial expressions, gestures, and body posture or position.”
Understanding non-verbal speech is very crucial to avoid misunderstandings. In various cultures, the same signs have different meanings, so knowledge is essential. Being familiar with these signs might help have a more fluent conversation. Additionally, nonverbal communication might be particularly helpful when a language barrier occurs. For example, while traveling, we might not speak the local language, but gestures can help us communicate with the local community.
In Iceland, maintaining eye contact is a vital aspect of nonverbal communication. It shows respect and interest in the conversation. Moreover, one of the most vital gestures is shaking hands with the hosts when visiting someone and taking off your shoes before entering an individual's house. These actions signify respect and good manners in Icelandic culture.
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https://www.rachelbeohm.com/what-to-do-when-someone-invades-your-personal-space/ |
Personal space is highly valued in Iceland. When talking, waiting in a queue in a store, or standing at a bus stop, it is important to remember to maintain an appropriate distance. When meeting new people, shaking hands and smiling while introducing yourself is the only acceptable physical contact. Hugs and kisses are strictly reserved for closer relationships, for instance between family and close friends.
I find that Icelandic culture's perspective on personal space is very similar to Polish culture. From what I have learned so far about Iceland, the distance between strangers is crucial. Even at the bus stop, strangers do not sit next to each other, there is always a space for one person with a space between them. This behavior is also seen in Poland. If three people sat on a bus stop bench in the USA, only two would occupy the bench. This environment feels natural to me, so I would not perceive any significant difference.
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To better understand Icelandic culture, let’s compare their norms to Americans. Physical touch in the US is appropriate in more situations than in Iceland. While we hug even with people we just met, it is inappropriate there. As I mentioned earlier, shaking hands was the only physical touch allowed. Icelanders are much less "touchy". However, physical affection is perfectly acceptable in family settings or among close friends.
Icelandic culture is more monochronic time orientation than polychronic, meaning that individuals tend to focus on one task at a time. The approach leads to prioritizing schedules, deadlines, and punctuality. Understanding cultural norms, such as the significance of punctuality and effective time management, is crucial to be successful and minimize misunderstandings in new environments. By recognizing and respecting these values, we can provide ourselves with a better experience.
Websites I used to write this blog:
- www.britannica.com/topic/nonverbal-communication
- www.rivermate.com/guides/iceland/cultural-considerations
- aperian.com/blog/cultural-perspectives-on-time-and-responsiveness/
- skemman.is/bitstream/1946/22584/1/MIB0515_Thesis_Inga_Juliusdottir.pdf
- www.tourismiceland.is/language-in-iceland/
- www.yourdictionary.com/monochronic
- www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/between-cultures/201706/non-verbal-communication-across
- www.sliceoficeland.is/blog/the-unwritten-rules-understanding-icelandic-etiquette
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