Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

In my previous post, I discussed corporate etiquette which goes hand and hand with verbal and non-verbal communication. In this post I want to elaborate on communication in regards to body language.
 
Verbal communication is conveyed through speech or writing; while non-verbal communication consists of gestures, noises, and/or body language. When communicating, both verbal and non-verbal communication are occurring simultaneously. Since some gestures can have different meanings, non-Canadians should educate themselves before engaging in business relations.
 
For example:

• "Thumbs down" is considered offensive in Quebec, as is slapping an open palm over a closed fist. Like the rest of their countrymen and women, French-Canadians use the "thumbs up" sign to mean "okay. "The "okay" sign made with the index finger and thumb means "zero" in Quebec.
• One-eyed wink has a several meanings in Canada depending on the conversation. It can suggest that what is being said is a secret and you should not tell other people if the conversation is about something important, especially if being said in private or quietly. A one-eyed wink can also be a sign of confidence when someone is making a bold claim. It can also be used to flirt with someone of the opposite sex in social settings. Just be sure that you are using it in the right context.
• Rubbing your chin in Canada usually means that you are thinking about something but if you flick your chin outwards it is a sign that you are insulting the person you are looking at.

In Canadian culture, the handshake is the most that people will touch. Physical contact in the workplace does not happen very often and putting your hand on someones arm may be misunderstood and lead to trouble. Canadians maintain a certain amount of personal space. However, French Canadians stand closer together, frequently touch, and gestures are more expressive. 

Most Canadians chose to use a handshake when saying hello in the business world.
Some French Canadians use the European style of kissing both cheeks as a formal greeting. A proper handshake should not be too loose or too strong. It should be just strong enough to hold a person‟s hand firmly. It is also important to look eye to eye when shaking hands. This shows your confidence.

Eye contact is a very important piece of business etiquette in Canada. Not making eye contact with a person can make the other person assume that you are shy, insecure or even worse, insincere. It is also recommended to take off your hat or sunglasses when entering into a Canadian business. This way people can see your eye and become more comfortable with you.

Handshakes are also important in the business world for making agreements. Sometimes deals can be made with a handshake and the handshake is considered a promise. Although this is considered as an honorable way to do business in Canada, it is always recommended that after a business agreement is made with a handshake, a written contract is drafted and signed.

If a person is overly expressive they may come across as aggressive, but if they are not expressive enough they may come off as uninterested. Newcomers must be aware of this when integrating into Canadian business practices. Smiles and nods during a conversation can show that you are paying attention and following the conversation.

I have only touched the surface. If you plan on building a business relationship with Canada, be sure and do further research on their customs and behaviors. Because you may want to know it's considered rude by many in Quebec to talk with your hands in your pockets or that eating while walking in public is not acceptable. Things Americans do automatically.


Work Cited:
"Canada" ediplomat.com. ediplomat.com. Web. 1 March 2013.<http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_ca.htm.>

“Business Etiquette in Canada Tips for Conducting Business in the Canadian Workplace” ccck.ca. ccck.ca. Web. 2 March 2013
<www.ccck.ca/files/Business Etiquette Reformat.pdf>
 

"Canada Business Etiquette & Culture" cyborlink.com. cyborlink.com. Web. 1 March 2013. <http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/canada.htm>