[Deleted]
Asking favor or question?
Maybe I'm wrong about this.
I'm from Japan and we provide things proactively. For example, we suggest/advise before they ask for it. We tend to be helpful even when they are not asking for a help etc. It doesn't mean to be nosy or burst through their shell. It comes naturally especially to people you love and care.
In America, as I experience their reaction to the standard, they tend to change the subject even though it was them who cracked the conversation. They seemingly get annoyed from my experience.
In general, is it better to not "volunteer" unless they directly ask for a help? Is it better off listening and following their leads??
Aug 28, 2015 4:39 AM
Answers · 4
There's a gap of cultural understanding right there, I don't think they really know you want to "volunteer" unless you specifically say so. (then you might get your answer, yes or no)
I'm not sure in what kind of context you mean. If you're talking about helping out the family if you're homestaying; it depends! Generally in the west you don't let your guests do any work, but if you're homestaying for a longer while you 'become part of the family'. To be part of the family you would have to function and help out with the work.
I hope that makes sense. I'll try to sum it up in two sentences;
You generally don't have to help out, offering your help is not wrong however!
If you're 'part of the family' you can help out, but this may vary, depending on with whom you're staying.
August 28, 2015
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