Most communication gurus will tell you that you need to know your audience before a presentation. However, the big on-stage presentation is not an everyday event. In fact, everyday meetings and one-on-one conversations require heeding the same advice. It’s also important to think about the regional diversities that exist across a globally connected community.I was reminded of regional diversity recently at a cocktail party. The group was very diverse, with all political points of view represented. We had professionals from many high-profile industries such as banking, healthcare, housing and insurance. I expected some strong debates ending in agreeing to disagree. It was the entertainment executive who raised the hottest topic. Yes, when living in LA, no party is complete without at least one entertainment mogul in the group.
The question came up, “Have you seen Avatar? What did you think?” I was the first to speak. I had seen the film just that day. Yes, I knew it was the top grossing movie in the world, but it just didn’t appeal to me. I agree it was visually stunning. The 3D was interesting to see, but I guess I am just a fuddy duddy. I like books more than a Kindle, and I like movies in 2D.
I noted that I was surprised it cost so much to make. That’s when I got my first lashing, “Why would you even care how much was spent? Can’t you appreciate how this furthers the art of movie making? Would you rather if James Cameron had not put all those people to work?” I reconsidered for a moment. Yes, I really appreciated the job creation, and in fact I had recently met a massage therapist who was employed on the set for over four years.
But, as I reconsidered, I also blurted out that I wish some of the over-the-top spending had gone to crafting a better script. The entire room became silent. I had to explain that I thought the story was plain and contrite. It was a simple “cowboy and Indians” tale that paid homage to remaking the story of the Wizard of Oz. Then, you have all the sub-stories circulating on the topics of anti-business, anti-establishment and anti- military. That’s just old news. I didn’t feel an emotional attachment to the story line.
Anywhere else in the country, this would have just been a minority view point on a minor topic. Not so at a party where you can see the Hollywood sign out the window. The movie exec would not let the topic die. She spent the entire evening battling for me to change my mind. She had never worked with Cameron, didn’t have anything to do with the film, and it was soon evident that she hadn’t even seen the movie. I was perplexed, having only lived in LA for a couple of years. Upon reflection, this was a regional audience that I had not fully evaluated. Movies aren’t just something you do on Sunday afternoon in L.A. Many people “eat, breathe and sleep” the business of movie making in Southern California.
Many cultural no-no’s are published. In China, it is considered rude to put your hands near your mouth. In France, you should not discuss wealth or jobs. In Germany, punctuality is of prime importance – do NOT be even a be few minutes late. In India, you should never point at someone, nor show affection in public. In Italy, do not chew gum in public or eat while walking.
Now I know to add to the list: when in L.A., be careful when you diss a movie.
But the bigger lesson? The ultimate lesson? Know your audience and the local customs. It will make for a better party.
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photo by JF10