You order something from a supplier, meticulously specify the requirements, ask if it will be made in accordance with the specifications, delivered on time – and you are delighted! You hear over and over that everything will of course be delivered and completed. Yes, yes and again yes.
Meanwhile, in the middle of the project, it turns out that maybe 5% has actually been done, and the rest is a free interpretation of what it should be. How could this have happened? Quite simply. “Yes” in some cultures just means “I hear you, but that doesn’t mean I agree.” I will not directly say that I will not deliver the project, because it would be embarrassing for me and for you. You’d better hear my silent “no” and see for yourself if I can do it. If you didn’t do it, and decided to move ahead anyways, there will be unpleasant consequences for everyone.
Cultural codes, sewn deep into our system, can be very confusing. Tips are key.
