Russian traditions will become clearer to a foreigner if he knows the peculiarities of the Russian mentality and communication style. Our compatriots are less pragmatic and more open to communication.
Some Russian traditions seem strange or surprising to foreigners. This is due to the peculiarities of the mentality of our people. Behavioral reactions, including gestures, facial expressions, attitude to the interlocutor, the degree of openness of the Russian soul, to a large extent distinguish Russians from foreigners.
Communication style
Psychologists consider Russians to be capable of intuition, Western rationality and pragmatism are not characteristic of the majority. Emotions can prevail over reason, and passion over financial interests. Russians need emotional support from their environment and close human contacts.
The monotony and daily routine causes despondency, so some, having moved to live in other countries, suffer from boredom and the inability to talk heart to heart. There are practically no forbidden topics for communication. In addition to conversations on professional topics, it is permissible to discuss personal matters.
A smile for a Russian person is an expression of personal sympathy and approval. It is used more often in informal contacts than in formal ones. Its absence does not mean negative reaction or hostility. It is customary to maintain a serious expression in working relationships, because they do not imply mandatory personal sympathy. The Western manner of constantly smiling can be perceived as mental callousness or tactlessness.
The acceptable distance of communication and the manner of behavior of Russians in dialogue differs from foreign ones. Our compatriots are accustomed to approach each other during a conversation or sit down closer than the norms of European etiquette allow. Strong handshakes, hugs, slaps on the shoulder, or touching the interlocutor are acceptable.
This is a familiar style of communication that does not indicate a parenting gap. Reducing distance and tactile contact is evidence of interest in dialogue, a sign of location and trust. The closer the relationship, the less formal the communication style can become. Openness and sincerity, increased sociability are in the traditions of the Russian people.
Relationship
The peculiarity of Russian traditions is respect and condescension towards the elderly, mutual assistance between relatives and friends. Help can be provided not only to close people, but also to strangers. It is expressed in the form of moral support and material participation.
Russians are tolerant towards representatives of other nations. The main thing is human qualities, not nationality. Historically, the country is multinational and different peoples live peacefully, preserving their identity.
The denial or understatement of the role of Russian soldiers in the outcome of the Second World War is perceived extremely negatively, because almost every family has members or deceased relatives. This also explains the rejection of fascist ideology.
The Russian archetype has several virtues. These are: sincerity in communication, sincerity and the ability to empathize, mutual assistance, emotionality. Knowledge of the characteristics inherent in each nation helps to make communication more successful, as it contributes to an adequate understanding of the partner.
