Cross cultural business

Great Britain• Punctuality is very essential at any business

meeting or events• Meetings are structured but not too formal

and end with social conversations• Do remember to shake hand for each

meeting• Direct eye contact is important or else it

could be considered as impolite• Never ask personal questions regarding

occupation, background or income

France• Arriving 10 to 15 minutes after a scheduled time is

not considered as late.• Distinction between private and business life, and

have to respect privacy of others.• French bosses generally take a dictatorial and

authoritative approach.• Always maintain an air of formality and reserve .• Never display sign of impatience because French

take time for decisions.

China

• Being on time is very essential.• The order of entering the room is very

important as the Chinese are status conscious.• It is rare that the Chinese will deal with people

they don’t know or trust.• Never use negative replies like “no” but instead

use ”may be”.• Node is not a sign of agreement, it means that

the person is simply listening.

Japan

• Lateness is as sign of disrespect• Show greater respect to the eldest members• Personal space is highly valued • Physical contact other than a handshake is never

displayed in public.• Avoid negative emotion during business negation.• Don’t use large hand gestures

Russia

• Personal and informal contact is a central part in doing business in Russia

• Physical contact is a positive sign• Should not shake hand firmly when greeting

and leaving Russian partners• Shouldn’t be afraid to show some emotion• Don’t praise or reward anyone