Communication style

Mainly there are three main types of communicating styles which are

Aggressive communicators will often:

try to dominate others

use humiliation to control others

criticize, blame, or attack others

be very impulsive

have low frustration tolerance

speak in a loud, demanding, and overbearing voice

act threateningly and rudely

not listen well

interrupt frequently

use you statements

have an overbearing or intimidating posture

The impact of a pattern of aggressive communication is that these individuals:

become alienated from others

alienate others

generate fear and hatred in others

Always blame others instead of owning their issues, and thus are unable to mature

Passive communicators will often:

fail to assert for themselves

allow others to deliberately or inadvertently infringe on their rights
fail to express their feelings, needs, or opinions
tend to speak softly or apologetically
exhibit poor eye contact and slumped body posture

Assertive communicators will often:

state needs and wants clearly, appropriately, and respectfully

express feelings clearly, appropriately, and respectfully
use I statements
communicate respect for others
listen well without interrupting
feel in control of self
have good eye contact
speak in a calm and clear tone of voice
 have a relaxed body posture
feel connected to others
feel competent and in control
not allow others to abuse or manipulate them
stand up for their rights

Saudi Arabian communication style

The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic, a language with an immense vocabulary and spoken
by over 120 million people worldwide. The Saudis' utilization of their language reflects the values of
their culture, such as saving face (Gorill, , 2006). The importance of correctly addressing elders and
customary greetings is displayed through the language as well (Gorill, , 2006). Saving face in their
culture means as when conversing with one another, Saudis strive to maintain group harmony by
avoiding individual attention as well as singling out another member of the community. Therefore,
during the relationship-building process, it is important to offer compliments to host, his
organisation, Saudi Arabia and the Muslim world in general ( Warburton, 2017). Questions which
seem overly familiar at a very early stage also are to be asked by the common. Questions about
marital status, children, religious convictions and personal wealth are commonplace ( Warburton,
2017). If it is uncomfortable answering such questions, have a ready supply of stock answers at your
disposal. Refrain from saying that you are an atheist as this is incomprehensible in a society in which
the absolute existence of a monotheistic deity is a given ( Warburton, 2017).

People are reluctant to convey bad news to you about any business issues. Do not be surprised if
people seem somewhat aggressive in meeting situations. Speaking volubly and with a rising tone
shows sincerity ( Warburton, 2017). This denotes engagement and interest and is in no way a
negative sign. (The ability to converse in this manner is a much-admired characteristic in the region.)
Socialization has changed dramatically in Saudi Arabia within the last 40-50 years. Mothers used to
give birth at home before raising the child at home with the extended family or even a wet-nurse.
This instilled the culture, religion and language. Domestic servants or maids now are very much
responsible for raising children. As a result children today grow up speaking English and learning the
morals and cultural cues from foreigners, usually Filipinos, Sri Lankans and etc.

Finally, be aware of the importance of good, strong eye contact ( Warburton, 2017). A mans
sincerity and honour can be judged by their ability to look you in the eye ( Warburton, 2017). This
can be somewhat uncomfortable for those from cultures with much weaker eye contact (many Asian
countries) but efforts must be made in this area ( Warburton, 2017). Avoid any negative references
to Islam, the situation in the Middle East or the role of the House of Saud ( Warburton, 2017).

5 Key Conversation or Gesture Tips

Family is a good topic of conversation, however dont inquire about female members unless
they bring it up first

Sports, especially soccer (known as football), horse and camel racing, hunting and
falconry, although keep in mind that all betting is illegal

Praise the Saudi landmarks, cuisine, dress, and all aspects of the country that you find
appealing

The unique and historic architecture of the Saudi culture

 Periodically ask about the health and happiness of family brothers, uncles, cousins, and sons

5 Key Conversation or Gesture Taboos

Politics, Israel, illness, accidents, death, or bad luck of any kind

Anything that could cause embarrassment or loss of face

The left hand is considered unclean in the Arabic culture, so always use the right hand when
touching, eating, or gesturing

While sitting keep both feet on the ground, dont cross your legs, and avoid showing the
bottom of your foot which is considered very offensive

Although Saudis gesture with their hands while speaking, pointing or using the thumbs-up
gesture is considered rude.

Dont point at anyone or show the soles of your shoes.

Dont stare at women.

Dont point at people, keep your hand flat and gesture instead.

Dont wear tight clothing.

Dont say anything critical of the royal family, Islam or a persons family.

Dont show affection to the opposite sex in public.

Dont discuss sex in public.

In conclusion from this topic we know that the characteristics of the Saudi Arabian culture
involve families, Islam religion and believe in metaphysics, lack of punctuality, man domination,
hospitality, bargaining on prices, honour, high emotional and etc.

References
Warburton, K. (2017). Saudi Arabian Communication Styles. Retrieved from globalbusinessculture:
http://www.worldbusinessculture.com

Carol , K. G. (2011, March ). Communicating Across Cultures. Retrieved from asme:

https://www.asme.org/engineering-topics/articles/business-
communication/communicating-across-cultures

Edelman, Remond, S. (2005). Communication styles. Retrieved from REACH OUT.COM:

http://ie.reachout.com/communication/communication-styles/

Gorill, , J. (2006, november 30). Communication. Retrieved from http://acad.depauw.edu:

http://acad.depauw.edu/~mkfinney/teaching/Com227/culturalPortfolios/Saudi_Arabia/Wor
ks_Cited.htm