Friday, September 13, 2013

Business with Bob: Culture and small talk



Compare the Coconut and the Peach culture. Which type are you?
How can the peach-coconut communication challenge be solved?

3 comments:

  1. Very interesting and useful topic i think and it is a very good observation and comparison with coconuts and peaches. Easy to remember than, that coconuts are having the shell representing their public persona as very hard, representing both how serious stereotypical appear to foreigners and also how difficult it is to break into their private sphere. Once someone does break a coconut shell, the interior is very sweet, which represents the loyalty they could bring to their close friendships. Controversial to them peaches are having a very soft outer layer. They appear much more friendly and are willing to divulge more personal information to others more quickly. But their private sphere is very small and hard. As for me I'm more coconut type of people, that's why it's harder for me to make a good first impression. But I don't give up to make it good, firstly maybe by trying to stay calm when "peaches" starting to ask a lot of questons about myself. Patience could be the main Savior in such relationships. Coconuts effective with peaches if Start is softly, e.g., ask them how they are, what they did on the weekend, etc.
    Acknowledge them/compliment them on something you sincerely appreciate about them or just try to smile. Don’t take criticism personally, it belongs to both of types.

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  2. I'm agree with Alexandra in point, that It's a good metaphor for comparing styles of small talks, because of simpleness in remembering the main differences between them. But, in contrast to Alexandra, I'm a peach type of people. There's nothing wrong for me to share the private details even with a business partner. Of course, there is some private area, which is my pit inside. But I'm always open to become acquainted with everyone, who wants. This video is also useful for my friendship with Alexandra:) Knowing that she's coconut, I will try to avoid some moments, that can irritate her.;)

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  3. Very interesting point of views, I also think that information in this video is very useful and important for business people and not only. This video one more time teach us don’t to judge too quickly. I always was annoyed by persons who talk too much about their private life during our first dialogue. I position myself as coconut, may be not real coconut but “banana” for example, smth between two extremes. And thankfully for this video I understand my mistake. Now such behavior won’t displease me, now I know that it’s not a problem, it’s just mentality of “peach” person. And I take Bob’s advice and will create original strategy with every person.

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