![]() On the other hand, if we have a habit of ignoring emails we feel are unimportant or being slow to reply to requests, we indirectly contribute to a negative portrayal of ourselves.Ĭan’t accept a sales proposal because you have another better offer? Instead of ignoring the failed bidder, thank him for his efforts in introducing his products or services. ![]() This is especially true in relationship-oriented cultures like those found in Asia. People will work well with us if they like the positive qualities we display. It shows we care enough to realize that other people’s work may depend on our response to their requests. When we provide a prompt reply (even if it’s a polite refusal to something), we project to others the impression of being responsive, reliable and professional in our job. Building a personal brand involves establishing an image in the minds of others about who we are as an individual. Is the act of holding back our response really the best solution? What negative effects could we be sending to others without even realizing it, especially if we work globally and with people from cultures that value a timely response? Consider the following: At other times, like Thomas in the example above, one might feel it’s better to complete the whole task required of them first before providing any reply. So a lack of response may be viewed as a better option than outrightly saying ‘No’ to someone, with the hopes that the person will get the hint. Are there cultural reasons behind this behaviour?Īs a face-saving culture, Malaysians often avoid embarrassing themselves or others around them. Do you recall the last time you were required to wait for a reply that was obtained only when you spoke to the person face-to-face? Or that came at the last minute after repeated endeavours to reach that person? Or how about a reply that never came at all? At times, it is almost expected not to receive any response unless it’s a positive one. No doubt, many of us have had a similar experience. Would you be able to complete them by then? I’ll need to submit them in two days’ time. Ronald: OK, I just wanted confirmation that you received it. I’ve got time this afternoon, so I’ll go through it then, is that alright? Thomas: Oh, I haven’t had the time to finish reviewing it. ![]() Ronald: Hi Thomas, I wondered if you’ve had the chance to look through the evaluation report I sent through two weeks ago. As the due date for submission is near, Ronald decides to personally stop by Thomas’ office to check on the progress. When Ronald returns to the office the next day, there is still no reply from Thomas. He decides to send a reminder email to Thomas. He sent the documents via email to his peer, Thomas, two weeks ago but has not received a response. Ronald requires a third-party reviewer to provide feedback on his recent evaluation report for a construction project. ![]() This entry was posted in Culture Insights Working with Malaysians and tagged business culture cross-culture cultural intelligence Cultural understanding on by Boleh Blogger ![]()
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