Direct communication simply means saying exactly what is on your mind. An example of direct communication would be, “Dad, these shoes are junk. Would you buy me new shoes for my birthday?” Indirect communication means hinting or beating around the bush. An example of indirect communication would be, “Hey dad, I have a birthday coming up next week and it sure has been a long time since I’ve had a new pair of shoes.” Although it is implied that you would like a new pair of shoes for your birthday, you’re not actually asking directly for a new pair of shoes.
“In a country like Brazil, if you feel something strongly, you show it. Overt signs of emotion definitely do not imply lack of conviction and should be taken as the deeply felt belief of the speaker.” Direct communication cultures, similarly known as low context cultures, are taught to say what they mean. The first sentence of this quote states that Brazilians do not try to hide their emotions when they feel strongly about something. Usually, high context cultures are much more reserved when communicating.
“Communication is often informal and does not rely on strict rules of protocol. Anyone who feels they have something to say will generally add their opinion. It is considered acceptable to interrupt someone who is speaking.” The second and third statements of this quote prove that Brazilians do not hesitate to speak their mind. This is very similar to what I said in the last paragraph, that low context cultures are taught to say what they mean. A high context, or indirect communication culture, certainly would not think it acceptable to interrupt someone at any point in time.
“In business settings they usually have no problem saying NO and may prefer frank messages to diplomatic ones. Brazilians can be direct and intense at the negotiation table, while polite and ambiguous in social settings.” Brazilians seem to be strictly business when it comes to business. They would much rather prefer a blunt response rather than a tactful response. When it comes to social settings, on the other hand, Brazilians are a little more reserved and tend to watch what they say so as not to embarrass someone else.
Personally, I wouldn’t have to adapt much at all to work in Brazil. Similar to Brazilians, I will not hesitate to speak my mind and to be firm when it comes to business. I believe that business is best conducted when people are direct and straight-to-the-point. When you have indirect and tactful responses, the concept as a whole may not be conceived as it was meant to be. I also wouldn’t have to adapt much when it comes to social settings in Brazil. I consider myself to be very polite and reserved in social settings.
Fun Fact: Brazilians stand extremely close together when they communicate. Backing farther away from them when communicating is a sign that you are uncomfortable with them.
Culture Shock 