Saving Face in India
What the H$#@ are you saying Dat?
By this time, you may say "Dat, if we avoid all these things that you have mentioned, why would we even do business or even have a conversation? Because that is how we do business and without getting the answer for our questions we will never get anything done."
I would reply that you are correct. One method I have heard that some international businesses have mentioned to be a successful technique is instead of giving a direct message with words, you should provide the message through a hint, suggestion, or indirect message.
In the book of "Speaking of India" by Craig Storti, he gives a great example. Let's say that you find yourself behind on a project and want more time. Instead of saying you need more time, you can say "Wow, this project is bigger than I thought it would be," or "Our team has been working nonstop but still there a lot more angles we can explore."
Dropping hints is the key. Saying "This project is bigger than expected" can be translated to mean that you need more time. Or, "I'm working nonstop but still there are a lot things to be done" is another way to say you need more time.
A good reason for Indians to talk this way is because their purpose in having a conversation is not to exchange information but to preserve each other's harmony. Another way to say this is that Indian people will tell you what you want to hear and not the reality (Craig Storti, 2007). Knowing this will help maintain your honor and other people's honor while talking. When you are talking to an Indian native, please listen carefully and read between the lines. I know this is easier said than done.
Thank you for joining me today, and I really appreciate your time. However, I feel that I have not successfully covered everything on this matter. If you have any suggestions, please don't hesitate to let me know. Thank you in advance. From where I am and wherever you are, have a great night and good luck everybody.
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