Abstract:
To compare the definition and the characteristics of communication competence between the Japanese superiors and the Thai subordinates in Japanese companies. The study shows the similarity and the difference of how the two parties think about their interpersonal communication skills. This study was conducted by survey questionnaires to 55 Japanese in executive positions and 75 Thai subordinates in Japanese companies in Bangkok and greater Bangkok and by 6 in-depth interviews. The result of the study shows that 1) The meaning of "communication competence" according to the Japanese superiors is based on the idea that the communication competence is 'between' the communicators, while the Thai subordinates view "communication competence" as characteristics 'within' the communicators. This means that the Japanese superiors take into account the background and culture of the communicators while interpreting the messages. Namely, this type of communication competence can be viewed as "situational oriented" while the Thai subordinates places more emphasis on the sender's ability to send massage and create common understanding between the communicators. In brief, communication competence of Japanese superiors is relatively "culture specific", while communication competence of Thai subordinates is "culture general". 2) Both superiors and subordinates agree on the five most important characteristics that competent superiors should possess. These characteristics are being open-minded and supportive to subordinates' opinions, clarifying job assignments, being open to subordinates' problems and concerns, and being able to give advice when needed, giving correct information to subordinates and being able to persuade them. However, both parties do not agree on these five qualities in real practice. 3) Both superiors and subordinates agree on the four most important characteristics that competent subordinates should possess. These characteristics are honestly revealing all concerned information including their work mistakes, giving correct information to superiors, being responsible for all their mistakes, listening and trying to implement superiors' advice. However, both parties do not agreed on these four qualities in real practice