Our origin stories begin all over the world. Each culture holds its own ideals and norms for the ways its
citizens behave and communicate in different settings. Based on our unique backgrounds, our styles of
communication have specific differences and led to interesting virtual interactions, where we all had to be
mindful of the differences in communication etiquette. We saw these, many times subtle, differences throughout
our virtual interactions. Added to this is the fact that many contributors in our group have temporarily lived
in other countries as well, which diversifies their communication etiquette even further. The way we interact
with others is supremely influenced by not only the area we are born but the regions we further develop through
educational and work experiences.
Born and raised in central Indiana. Pursuing a Masters in Library and Information Science with a focus on
Academic Librarianship in order to work as an Education Subject Librarian in a University.
About Central Indiana, USA
United States - Communication Etiquette
Conversations often show their self-interest and this may come across as rude or aggressive. Typical
conversations are more direct and simple language is valued. Non-verbal messages can be interpreted as
confusing, so they are not as relied upon. Conversations are often also more personal in situations that may
not call for that level of private directness.
Originally from Kenya but currently residing in Helsinki Finland. Has a Bachelor’s in nursing and is
currently studying IT with the aim of getting into health informatics and becoming a health informatics
specialist.
About Karatina, Kenya
Kenya - Communication Etiquette
Conversations are typically polite and friendly. These conversations follow a hierarchy where elders and
superiors are respected and deferred to. Conversations are thought out in order to ensure respect and care is
shown when interacting. Humor is often used when conversing.
Born in the USSR, raised all over the place, from Siberia to Amsterdam and Helsinki, which I now call home.
At the moment perusing a new career, because I got tired of the old one, a father of two, with a dream of
getting a better education.
About USSR
Russia - Communication Etiquette
Conversations are more direct and matter-of-fact with corrections given immediately and honestly.
Conversation is delivered in a more concise manner. This can sometimes be misinterpreted as being too blunt,
but that is not the intent behind the direct delivery.
Originally from Chennai, India but is now a resident of the United States of America and calls Indiana home.
Has a Master's in Computer Engineering and currently pursuing a Master's in Library Information Science and
hopes to be a Systems Librarian.
About Chennai, India
India - Communication Etiquette
Conversational norms are different based on relationship structure and hierarchy. Conversations do not
usually include outright refusing an idea and remain more open. Non-verbal interactions are deeply intertwined
with verbal conversations.
Born in Helsinki, Finland. Graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare with a specialization in dental
hygiene, and now pursuing another Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. In the future, sees herself
working in a software engineering team combining her interest towards management and eye for design.
About Helsinki, Finland
Finland - Communication Etiquette
Conversations are conducted in a respectful back and forth. Interrupting is considered rude and the listener
is expected to let the speaker finish before contributing to the conversation. Voice tone remains moderate or
neutral. Courtesy is shown to the speaker, which is an expectation that is common in all interactions.
The following map is a visual representation of our diverse backgrounds and showcases our cultural differences
all while representing the expanse of our Global classroom.
