During the early stages of an intercultural relationship, be conscious of the ways you reduce uncertainty, keeping in mind that people from other cultures (e.g., high vs. low context) reduce uncertainty using different kinds of communication strategies. Be flexible and mindful that your way of reducing uncertainty (e.g., asking a lot of questions, making direct eye contact) may actually increase uncertainty for your new intercultural friend. Also keep in mind that your new friend may not ask a lot of questions, may not look at you directly, and may use the nonverbal environment to reduce uncertainty. This does not necessarily mean that he or she is shy or apprehensive.