Nonverbal Communication (Peru)

Whenever I have traveled to a foreign country, I have noticed the nonverbal communication between people are a bit different from what I'm accustom to in America. For instance, I have seen that the proper way to meet someone is by kissing both sides of the cheeks instead of a proper handshake or hug like here in America. In a way both signs of nonverbal communication seem polite and well-mannered, but to other foreigners a simple hug or handshake can come across as disrespectful and impolite. Being able to realize these things before meeting someone can benefit you in a great way to provide for a better and more comfortable experience with that person. This goes to show that people who travel to foreign countries cannot take this interpersonal communication lightly. They cannot just ignore and think everything is alright when it's really not because in the long term it can have a big impact on how that person views you as a person entirely.


                                         Lists of Nonverbal Behavior in the Midwestern United States

• Slap on the back - a sign of encouragement and positivity.
• Keeping distance - allowing about two to three feet of space between associates in a conversation.
• Thumps up - means yes or good.          

                                        Lists of Nonverbal Behavior in Latin Countries

• In Peru, shaking your head in how we see as "no," means to "come here."
• The "OK" sign in Brazil is a vulgar term.
• Kiss on the cheek - is common for women but men do firm hand shakes.