What is face-saving? How might it influence criticism in public speaking? Discuss two “communication rules” of face-saving cultures

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Answers will vary. Face-saving is the tendency to always allow people to appear in a positive light and to avoid any chance of negativity or embarrassment. People in collectivist cultures place a high value on face-saving. They may feel uncomfortable with open and direct criticism like that in public speaking, and may not want to say anything negative in public. Some may even avoid saying anything positive in public, for fear that it may be misinterpreted and considered negative. In public speaking criticism, they may feel more comfortable if it is openly explained, or they may prefer offering written criticism or having a private consultation. The communication rules of face-saving cultures are as follows: 1) Don’t negatively evaluate someone in public; compliment instead. 2) Don’t prove someone wrong, especially in public; agree instead even if you know it’s wrong. 3) Don’t correct someone’s errors; in fact, don’t even acknowledge errors. 4) Don’t ask someone difficult questions that might cause embarrassment; in fact, avoid asking questions entirely.