Communication is not just about the mechanics of the language. We make numerous assumptions when we communicate. In our next session, we'll be looking at communication styles. But before we do, let's look at a practical communication situation. Take a few minutes and consider the values behind the communication for both the Indian and American. After I read the incident, please pause the video and reflect.

Then restart the video and I will discuss what cultural values were in play the barbecue and Neil Shastri has been in the United States for two months. His fellow student john has been interested in learning about India and is generally friendly. He invites me out to a barbecue And his apartment on Labor Day. And Neil is interested in going but he also is somewhat reluctant. He tells john, I will definitely come. JOHN asks, Can you find my place?

You've got my number, right. Give me a call if anything comes up on the day of the party, and Neil does not go. john was expecting him and worries why he did it come. What did john say and do? What did a meal saying and do? What was John's intent and Emil's attempt How is each of them feeling now?

What should john or a meal do next? Should one of them bring up the barbecue? If so, who knows? What should john ordeal say? Pause the video and think about it. Welcome back.

I hope you pause the video and take in time to answer the questions. That's how you learn the most. Now let me give you our take on this communication. JOHN invites and Neil to a party. And Neil says he'll come but doesn't show. Johnson Ted seems to be genuinely friendly to an American and Neil's words combined with not showing up will seem insincere.

JOHN might be feeling like he can't depend on an on a deal or that and deals a bit random. And Neil might be thinking, how am I going to make American friends? It's hard to express myself to them. The conversation moves so fast Why didn't Neal attend? Perhaps something came up unexpectedly and he just couldn't make it. It is more likely, however, that a meal is uncomfortable, not knowing what to expect.

He may be a vegetarian and feel uncomfortable with what might be served. Do you think john understands what it means for the ultimate vegetarian? Probably not. It is very possible that john wouldn't have other Hindu friends and that there will be burgers sides plenty of beer, but not much else that might leave and kneel eating burger buns with ketchup and potato chips. Why did the deal say he was coming? When he knew that he probably wouldn't go?

Because in a Neil's mind, he would be rude to say no, I can't Come. What could a meal have said when john asked him? He could have said, Hey, that sounds great. Are you having lots of people over? You're probably not aware that I'm vegetarian. I can bring my own Sawyer burger, if that works for you, if that's good for you.

If Neil could get a little more info, then he'd feel more comfortable going in order to maintain or develop a relationship. It will be important to talk about what happened. In this case, I would say a Neil needs to bring it up. And he needs to tell john honestly, what was going on. He doesn't have to explain everything, but he should at least say I'm sorry, I didn't show. I should have asked you when you invited me about the food.

I'm vegetarian and didn't want to get into an awkward situation. But I guess now I know Am in an awkward situation. Next time, I'll be upfront with you. So be aware. Be aware of situations that you'll be part of. And I would encourage you to step out of your comfort zone events and engage in conference conversations about cultural differences about what you're comfortable with back in India, and how you're experiencing the changes of living in America.