Smiling is often seen as a universal expression of friendliness and happiness. However, in some parts of the world, smiling in certain contexts or in excess can be seen as inappropriate or odd. Understanding where and when smiling is not appreciated can help prevent cultural misunderstandings when traveling or doing business globally.
East Asia
In many East Asian cultures, such as China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, people do not smile at strangers in public. Smiling is generally reserved for exchanges with intimate friends and family. Smiling at someone you don’t know well could be seen as inappropriate or weird. There are several reasons behind this cultural norm:
- Smiling at strangers is seen as insincere. You would only smile genuinely at people you know well.
- Excessive smiling may be a sign that someone is hiding their true feelings and motivations. Being calm and reserved is valued.
- Maintaining calmness and emotional restraint is part of Confucian values that influence many East Asian cultures.
- Smiling too much could signal childishness or silliness rather than maturity.
In addition, smiling is not seen as necessary for service industry workers in many East Asian countries. A serious demeanor is preferred. Part of this comes from Confucian hierarchies where roles dictate behavior. Service with a smile is a Western concept.
When in East Asia
When you are traveling or doing business in East Asian countries, follow local norms:
- Avoid smiling at people you pass on the street or who provide services. It may come across as odd or fake.
- Wait for cues from local people before smiling. Let their warmth guide you.
- With business contacts, only smile lightly at moments that naturally call for it, like greetings.
- With friends, feel free to smile warmly as you would at home.
Russia
In Russia, smiling at strangers is also seen as insincere and odd. Like in East Asia, excessive smiling is considered a sign of shallowness or deceptiveness. Russian culture tends to be more reserved and fights the perception that Russians are cold or grim. Reasons for not smiling freely in public include:
- Smiling for no reason can be seen as a sign of foolishness or weakness.
- Russians value sincerity and genuine emotions which are revealed only to close friends.
- Reputation and dignity matter, and excess emotions may damage that image.
- Being serious shows maturity, self-control and depth.
When in Russia
Follow these tips for understanding Russian cultural norms around smiling:
- Avoid smiling at strangers unless responding to a clear greeting or gesture.
- With business contacts, smile politely but reservedly in greetings.
- With friends, your natural warmth will be appreciated.
- Complimenting others can be seen as insincere – use sincerely and sparingly.
Middle East
In many conservative Islamic cultures of the Middle East, smiling politely is valued, but excessive grinning or laughing in public, especially for women, is frowned upon as undignified. Reserved behavior is preferred. Reasons include:
- Excess emotions should be reserved for the private sphere.
- Women’s modesty in public is prized, so restrained behavior is preferred.
- Devout Muslims believe dignity, gravity and honor in conduct are virtues.
When in the Middle East
Follow these guidelines around smiling:
- Avoid loud laughing or excessive smiling in public spaces.
- Polite, slight smiles are fine on formal occasions or with new acquaintances.
- With friends, show joy and warmth freely in private settings.
- Handshakes with slight smiles are polite greetings.
Nigeria
In Nigeria, a different cultural viewpoint on smiling prevails. Nigerians often smile freely at strangers and acquaintances as a sign of friendliness and welcome. Reasons include:
- Smiling is seen as putting others at ease.
- It shows confidence and a joyful spirit.
- Friendliness is highly valued in social settings.
- Emotional restraint is less prized than in East Asia.
When in Nigeria
To adapt to Nigerian cultural expectations:
- Smile warmly when greeting others, even strangers.
- Maintain a cheerful demeanor in public.
- Laughter and joy are seen as signs of warmth.
- Avoid stone-faced silence; it may be seen as unfriendly.
Conclusion
Cultural norms around smiling vary greatly. East Asia, Russia, and the Middle East tend to value smiling only with intimates and frown on excessive public displays. Nigeria champions smiling more freely as an expression of goodwill. Understanding these differences can prevent miscommunications. When in another country, observe local customs and adjust your behavior. While smiling seems universal, when and how people smile reveals deeper cultural values.