Final answer:
When interacting with individuals from masculine cultures, consider the local organizational culture, engage in appropriate informal conversation, respect personal space and communication styles, and understand gender roles and speech patterns can differ from those in one's own culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interacting with someone from a masculine culture can benefit from sensitivity to certain cultural norms and expectations. In communities such as the Igbo in southeast Nigeria, masculinity is a complex, lifelong project that men strive to achieve, as seen in Daniel Jordan Smith's ethnographic work. It is important to remember that organizational cultures can differ greatly, even within the framework of masculine cultures, and one should take cues from what others are doing regarding attire, titles, and conduct.
Moreover, it is important to engage in informal conversation with colleagues, while being mindful of cultural differences and personal boundaries for topics such as political affiliation, age, and income. Personal space varies from culture to culture; whereas arm's length might be standard in one society, closer proximity might be the norm in another. Attention to these cues, as well as nonverbal communication like eye contact and body language, can ensure more successful interactions. Additionally, during a global health crisis such as COVID-19, be respectful of the individual's boundaries concerning practices like handshaking. Also be aware of the fact that characteristics of gender and patterns of speech may vary, and may not align with American stereotypes. It is important to apply proper conventions of speech delivery and show awareness of cultural considerations during interactions.