Low-Context Cultures

The United States is an example of what can be considered a low-context culture. In a low-context culture, context is of less importance. Instead these cultures emphasize ideals of individualism, and communication is often performed as written or verbal communication. In fact, in low-context cultures, business agreements often require a contract, whereas in high-context cultures a handshake can be a sign of an unspoken agreement.

Low-context cultures carry with them a particular set of values, which are often in contrast to high-context cultures. The values of low-context cultures are the following:

• Freedom
• Independence
• Self-reliance
• Equality
• Individualism
• Competition
• Openness
• Efficiency
• Time
• Directness

When communicating with low-context cultures, it is important you remember these values, as knowing the values listed above will aid you in communication with clients, customers, and employees who may be from a low-context culture.