Nonverbal communication symbols have different meanings from culture to culture.  For example, the “Okay” sign made by placing the forefinger and thumb into a circle and raising the remaining fingers has a positive meaning in North American cultures.  However, in some other cultures, this gesture is considered offensive.  People in different cultures feel differently about the use of personal space.  Standing one foot away when talking with someone is a comfortable distance for people in some cultures.  In other cultures, this distance is too close and will make the listener feel uncomfortable, as if her or his space is being invaded.  A listener in this situation may keep backing away from the speaker and have difficulty focusing on the message.  Learn about the nonverbal cues of people from different cultures with whom you communicate so that you can send the appropriate nonverbal messages.