Chapter 14: The Low-Context Communication (The power of “No”)

India is a “High-Context” culture. America is a “Low-Context” culture.

This is the most common cause of workplace conflict.

14.1. High vs. Low Context

High-Context (India): Much of the meaning is unspoken. You read between the lines. You don’t say “No” because it’s rude; you say “I’ll try my best” (which means No).
Low-Context (USA): The meaning is in the literal words. If you say “I’ll try my best,” the American hears: “There is a 90% chance it will be done.” When it isn’t done, they don’t think you were being “polite”—they think you lied.

14.2. The Power of “No”

In America, a clear “No” is seen as a sign of Integrity.

“I cannot finish this by Tuesday because I have too much other work” is a professional statement. It allows the other person to plan.
The “Yes” Trap: Indians who say “Yes” to everything out of a desire to be helpful often end up being the least trusted people in the office because they over-promise and under-deliver.

14.3. BLUF: Bottom Line Up Front

When you write an email or give a presentation to an American audience, use BLUF.

The Indian Way: Start with the history, the context, the “why,” and end with the request.
The American Way: Start with the request or the result. Then explain why.
Example: “I need $5,000 for a new server. Here is why…” vs. “As you know, our servers have been slow lately, and the team is frustrated, and we looked at options, and so we think we need $5,000…” (The American stopped reading after the second sentence).

Practical Takeaway for the Indian: If you aren’t 100% sure you can do something, say: “I need to check and get back to you,” or simply, “No, that’s not possible.” It feels rude to your Indian ears, but it sounds like “Reliability” to American ears.