Nonverbal Communication Guide for Visitors to the U.S.

Physical Contact

Compared to other people in the world, Americans don’t touch one another very much in everyday life. Researchers classify groups of people like this as “low touchers”. However, how much a person touches others depends on the individual. You may meet Americans who will never touch you, even though they like you a lot. You may meet others who touch you often, especially on the shoulders and arms, but such touches don’t always mean they feel close to you. For acquaintances and superiors, such as a professor or boss, a simple handshake is most common. Good friends may exchange hugs, kisses, or even friendly punches.

Gestures and Movements

A smile is a universal sign of greeting, and most Americans smile a lot. They are also used to giving and receiving direct eye contact and feel uncomfortable if you don’t look at their eyes when having a conversation. Most Americans show they are interested in what you are saying by nodding and smiling as they listen. Some may lean forward and touch your hands or arms. These gestures and movements carry very important messages.

Distance

Many Americans feel uncomfortable standing or sitting very close to others, especially when having a conversation. Even when they are talking with close friends and family members, most Americans stay about one meter away from one another. If you come closer, Americans may feel threatened and begin to back away. This may give you the mistaken impression that Americans don’t like you, but actually, they are just following one of the conventions of their culture.