| Summary/Abstract |
This article proposes an exploration of language as a cultural voice in the research of leadership, and
the conception that the dyadic relationship between leader and follower can be further looked into
semiotically within the discourses of language. In particular, this research hopes to bring into view the
plausible relationship between Chinese politeness and leader–follower interactions as well as its impact
on followers’ career development. The appropriate (non)usage of second-person pronoun nín (您) by
followers while interacting with superiors is the exemplar vernacular examined in this article. We
engaged 32 eMBA students on the usage of this second-person polite pronoun in official organisation
settings. Many agreed that Chinese politeness is both expected and required by interlocutors involved,
and it is a form of ‘face-giving’ and an acknowledgement of hierarchical differences. In most Chinese
organisations, status and hierarchical positions are specified clearly and must be properly acknowledged
as linguistic politeness is both expected and required. The authors hope to raise the possibility that the
linguistic and cultural influences, particularly politeness, involved in face-to-face verbal interactions
within formal Chinese corporate environment may signal a possible discursive variation in leader–follower
communication studies.
|