Cultural norms really shape how we understand non-verbal communication. This includes things like gestures, body language, and eye contact.

1. Gestures:

   • In Western countries, giving a thumbs-up means everything is good. But in some Middle Eastern countries, it can be really insulting.
   • About 70% of the way we communicate is through non-verbal signs. This shows just how important it is around the world.

2. Body Language:

   • In Japan, people bow to show respect. But in Western countries, people prefer a firm handshake instead.
   • Research says that 93% of how we share feelings comes from non-verbal signals.

3. Eye Contact:

   • In the U.S., looking someone in the eye shows you are confident. However, in many Asian cultures, it might be seen as rude.
   • Studies have found that how we use eye contact can change how much people trust us by more than 50%.

Getting to know these cultural differences is key for good communication with people from all over the world.