Middle of Everywhere - Mary Bray Pipher [148]
Even knowing a few words of a foreign language makes newcomers feel more relaxed.
Remember that without English, people can show you only the tip of the iceberg. Most of their personalities, intelligence, problem-solving abilities, and humor are hidden.
Communicating with Language
Use short simple sentences and speak slowly.
Pause frequently to check that you have been understood.
If you are not understood, do not repeat exactly what you said before; rather, paraphrase what you said with even simpler language. Do not move on until you understand and are understood.
Many times newcomers pretend to understand when they don't. Have newcomers repeat any essential information or instructions to make sure they understand.
Do not use jargon or professional language.
Avoid colloquialisms and slang.
Many newcomers have odd knowledge gaps. Don't assume people understand the whole because they understand part of a concept.
When possible use pictures and gestures to go with your words.
Write instructions down, even if the newcomer cannot read or write. Many newcomers have someone who can read the instructions to them.
A little information carefully selected and clearly communicated is better than lots of information that's misunderstood and overwhelming.
Good manners are always in order. You can't overdo please, thank you, and statements of respect, empathy, and appreciation.
Humor is appreciated and defuses tension. Laughter is calming for everyone. Try to have a little fun and make sure your last interaction is positive.
Clock-watching or rushing people is often interpreted as rude and uncaring. Take plenty of time.
Remember that different cultures have different ideas about the way to express emotions and about the value of emotional control.
Silence means different things in different cultures. In many cultures silence is a sign of respect and it is considered impolite to interrupt or to speak right after another person finishes.
Suggestions Concerning Nonverbal Behavior
Because language skills are limited, newcomers pay careful attention to nonverbal cues. Be aware of the message your posture, voice, facial expression, and eyes are sending. Use your body language to signal respect, attention, and optimism.
Be sensitive to cultural differences about touching. For example, many Muslim women are not comfortable shaking hands with men. Many Asians regard being touched on the head as an insult.
Be aware that different cultures have different ideas about personal space. Americans tend to be farther apart when speaking than most other peoples. This distance can be interpreted as coldness.
When Working with Interpreters
Seek interpreters who are both linguistically and culturally competent.
Be aware of problems with interpreters. They may be personally involved with the newcomer and not objective. They may be perpetrators of violence toward the newcomer's ethnic group. They may be gossipy, opinionated, or judgmental. They may be traumatized by what the newcomer says.
Try not to use children or family members as translators.
Make sure the newcomer is comfortable with the interpreter and also that the interpreter understands confidentiality.
Remember to keep your eyes on the newcomer.
Try to keep your sentences short and ask die newcomer to communicate in short simple sentences. (Most interpreters struggle with languages themselves and do not have strong memories.)
If the interpreter is abbreviating too much, ask politely, "What else did the newcomer say?" or say, "Please translate everything."
Before and after the session, talk with your interpreter. Make sure that he/she understands the task at hand and gets the help necessary to do a good job.
Appendix 2: Becoming a Cultural Broker
Why You Should Help
To learn languages
To learn about other cultures
To have greater involvement in international affairs
To put our own culture in perspective and see America in a new way
To feel useful and helpful
How to Get Involved
Visit with refugees