International Courtesies

DOING BUSINESS ABROAD 1. Know the basic facts

about the country you are visiting.

2. Never discuss religion, politics or sex.

3. Pay attention to passports, visas,

credit cards, and other paraphernalia of overseas.

4. Prepare business card carefully created for use in the country you visit.

. Learn the important Names & Titles.• Deferring to Age.• Respecting work Ethics.• A Question of Timing.• Dealing with Language Barriers.• Understanding Body Language.• Using Translators and Interpreters.• Differences in Dress.• Dining and Drinking.• Toasting.• Gift Giving.

KNOW THE BASICS OF A COUNTRY

• The correct name of the country you are visiting. Mexico is officially the United Mexican States.

• The form of government – e.g. a parliamentary democracy,and what it means. A country can call itself republic and still be a dictatorship.

• The nation’s capital.• Names of the ruler or top govt official. Note that in

most countries, the president is not as imp as the prime minister.

• Whether there is a national religion and what it is. Do not assume that all Arab countries are Muslim or vice versa.

• National holidays including religious holidays.• What dietary laws are observed.• Leading industries & agricultural products.• Prominent geographical features.• Great cultural landmarks: museums, temples,

mosque, cathedrals, seats of learning.• Great men and women : Nobel prize winners for

peace & literature and in the field your host may be working in; famous musicians, writers, artists & athlete.

• The country’s most popular sport.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Meeting and Greeting

1. Firm and confident handshake.

2. They come down to first names easily.

3. Believe in getting down to brass tacks straight away.

4. Known for their efficiency, work takes precedence over everything - including family.

5. Known for their production line mentality.

6. Business tactics are aggressive and propensity for hype.

7. They are not linguistically sophisticated.

8. People power is strong and can put a company out of business.

Entertainment

1. Formal and is mostly in hotels.

2. Strong emphasis on punctuality.

3. Exchange of gifts after the deal. They are opened in presence of the giver.

Social Taboos

1. Do not discuss politics.

2. Never ask personal questions.

CANADA


1. Business meetings usually held in the morning, are generally formal and start on time. Once the subject is tackled, Canadians are less likely than their U. S. , counterparts to stray from it.

2. The American propensity for hype is quickly recognized by Canadians, who generally expect the proceedings to be stripped of all but the facts.

3. Behaviour during introductions is virtually identical to that in the U. S.,except that both English-speaking and French Canadians are less likely to use first names straight off.In Quebec, business cards and materials should be in both English and French.

4. French Canadians tend to shake hands on leaving as well as greeting and often embrace or kiss the cheeks of close friends.

5. Canada has two official languages, English and French, though English is more widely spoken and is used much more in business circles.

Visiting and Entertaining

• Canadians business people normally entertain at a restaurant instead of inviting you to their homes; in the Western province , you may be invited to an outdoor barbecue.

• Canadians are excellent hosts who enjoy entertaining foreign associates.

• Business diners are considered primarily social.

• Gifts are sometimes exchanged ( and unwrapped on the spot ) after a business deal is closed, but they should be kept on the modest side lest they suggest ostentation – something the Canadians frown on.

Social Taboos

1. Except in the North American geographical sense, don’t speak of Canadians as part of “us”.

2. The V for victory sign, when flashed with the palm inward is taken as an insult.

3. In Quebec , it’s bad manners to eat while walking down the street.

4. Use titles and don’t be too familiar with associates until you have allowed sufficient time to develop a personal relationship.

5. Whether in business negotiations or at a social engagement, don’t be scared to speak up and ask for what you want - Canadians will always respect honesty and openness.

WESTERN EUROPE

FRANCE Meeting and Greeting

• Meetings begin punctually. There will be formal introductions and exchange of cards.

• Find out in advance if French or English will be spoken,and bring a translator if needed.

• Presentations should be formal, logical and complete.• The French handshake, a light grasp and a single shake, is

delivered on both meeting and departure. ( Avoid enthusiastic arm-pumping, which is considered gauche)

• Women and higher- ranking individuals are expected to offer their hands first. In social settings, women will greet friends with les bises – a pair of cheek –to- cheek kisses for both males and females.

• When organizing a business trip to France, it is important to plan your business wardrobe carefully - the French are very fashion conscious and take great care with their appearance.

• Being well dressed will create a positive first impression with your counterparts.

• Difficult, probing questions are to be expected so ensure your proposal is carefully thought out and don’t be unnerved by criticism or by confrontation.

• The highest- ranking individual will make the final decision and bring the session to a close.

• The French consider it vulgar to mention money at the start of a meeting so leave this until negotiations are nearing an end.

VISITING AND ENTERTAINING

1. The French are conscious of personal style. Dark suits and subdued ties are worn year- round in Paris and other northern cities; in the south, men often substitute a blue blazer and slacks.

2. Women should always wear suits in a business setting.3. Dining is a serious matter in France, and while business is

conducted over lunch or dinner, the food itself deserves your enthusiastic attention.

4. Do not dull your plate with hard liquor before a meal, and don’t launch into shoptalk before expressing your admiration for the food.

5. A dinner invitation to a French home is a rare honour. The traditional protocol is to send flowers the day before, and follow up with a hand written thank-you note the next day.

Social Taboos

1. Do not open a conversation with a personal question

2. Always knock before entering a room.

3. Avoid backslapping , loud braying laughter , or excessive heartiness.

4. While dinning, keep your hands above the table; never put them in your lap.

5. Do not chew gum in public.

GERMANY


1. Arrive on time ; a delay of even a few minutes can be taken as an insult. Most likely you will be introduced to a senior person by a lower-ranking associate.

2. The proper form is a brief, firm handshake all around, accompanied by a slight nod; if the group is large, a single handshake with the senior member will suffice.

3. Be ready to offer your card, which will win points if it lists any higher university degrees and professional honours.

4. Meetings begin with a bare minimum of pleasantries, and the atmosphere is serious and business like. Inquire in advance if the meeting will be in German or English, and if necessary take a interpreter.

5. Avoid hype and exaggeration, which becomes a instant turn-off. Save jokes and humour until after business hours.

6. Business dress is ultra conservative – dark suits, subdued ties and white shirts.Erect posture and a well- tailored appearance are expected of both men and women.


1. Restaurant lunches are the most common form of business entertainment, and they begin at the appointed hour.

2. You may discuss business before and after meal, but never while eating.

3. When finished, place your knife and fork vertically on your plate.

4. Insist on paying the bill only when you have issued the invitation.

Social Taboos

1. Never place a business call call to a German’s home telephone; family and business life are kept rigidly separate.

2. Speak in complete sentences, and avoid letting a thought trail off unfinished.Try to restrain excessive gestures and body language.

3. An American “ok” sign, where the thumb and index finger make a circle, is considered obscene.

4. Keep your hands out of your pockets.5. Avoid waving or calling someone’s name in a

public place.

GREAT BRITAINA NOTE OF CAUTION : Everyone in Great Britain is British ,

but only people from England proper are called English. The others are either Scots – never Scotch ( something you drink ) – Welsh or Irish. And none of them, despite Britain’s membership in the European Community, think of them as Europeans. Europe means the continent, across the English Channel.


1. The business community in London and elsewhere is often a tightly knit web of “old- boy” relationships that visitors may have difficulty penetrating.

2. Advance appointments are essential and preferably made after an introduction by a third party.

3. Initial meetings tend to be formal.

• Ensure you are punctual for meetings- it is considered rude to keep people waiting.

• You will shake hands on arrival but never on departure.

• Business cards are sometimes exchanged, though not always at the beginning or end of a meeting.The continental rituals of card swapping are not taken so seriously.

• In subsequent meetings, atmosphere becomes casual, suit jackets come off, sleeves are rolled up, and people start using first names. Jokes may be exchanged.

• The British want facts and figures in well-thought-out detail, backed up by a written documentation.

• Understatement sells better than aggressive presentation.


1. Most business entertaining takes place in pubs and restaurants.

2. When dinner is over, the principal guest is expected to initiate the departure.

3. Do not discuss business after office hours4. If invited to a home, arrive ten minutes late but

never a minute early. No gift is expected.5. The British maintain the tradition of holding

doors open for women and rising from their chairs when a woman enters a room. Next day send a hand written thank you note.

6. Dark suits with pinstripes are the classic look of a British businessman. Striped ties are risky because you might be wearing some regimental or club ties. Woman should dress stylishly but conservatively

Social Taboos

1 Never use the American conversational gambit “ What do you do?” Not only is the phrase meaningless here, but inquiring about a person’s livelihood is deemed rude and intrusive.

2. The British are not given to outbursts of emotion and may be disconcerted by business associates arguing passionately or loudly

3. Avoid talking shop at social events.

4. To call someone “clever” can be taken as a veiled personal insult.

5. When it comes to shoes, wear lace-ups rather than loafers.

ITALY


1. Northern Italians tend to be reasonably prompt, and they expect the same from you. ( In the south 20 minutes late is still on time. )

2. The atmosphere at the meetings is informal.

3. Presentations should be polished and articulate, but be prepared for interruptions. As time passes, you may expect everyone to speak, do not be dismayed – it is Italian to vocalize.

4. Everyone with a degree will have a title: dottore in liberal arts, avvocato in law, ingengere in technical fields, and professore in medicine and academia. Use these titles until invited to do otherwise.

5. Italians shake hands with everyone on both meeting and leaving; good friends may embrace.


1. Italians designers set fashion trends around the world, and well-cut suits and expensive ties are normal attire for male executives. Women wear either slacks or dresses, fashionable and understated.

2. Restaurant dinners are an important part of business life in Italy; it is rude to refuse an invitation. Since generosity brings prestige, you may find it difficult to grab the check.

Social Taboos

• At a social gathering, it is tactless to ask anyone about his or her profession.

• Do not embrace your hosts by arriving too promptly; allow at least 15 minutes leeway, and more in the south.

• Remove dark glasses when entering a building

THE NETHERLANDS

Meeting and Greeting1. Business meetings begin promptly and tend to move

quickly to the matter in hand.2. If you are late , you will be considered unreliable.3. Presentations should be factual, straight forward, and

free of hype or hyperbole.4. High- pressure sales techniques will be seen as rude and

obnoxious.5. The Dutch greet everyone, including children, with a

firm handshake on both meeting and departure.6. Direct eye contact is important7. In banking circles the dress is formal and sedate but

executives in some industries strike a more casual note; removing both ties and jackets while in office.


1. Business gatherings may continue with lunch at a restaurant: it is perfectly acceptable to continue the morning’s discussion over food.

2. You may also be invited to a colleague’s home after business hours, where the entertainment may take the form of drinks, coffee,and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

3. If invited for a sit down dinner, take flowers (unwrapped) but not wine; may be interpreted as a comment on your host’s wine cellar.

Social Taboos

• Modesty is the best policy in Netherlands; avoid ostentation hype, and exaggeration.

• When encountering a friend in a public place, you may wave but never call out.

• When entering a room wish everyone and introduce yourself; do not appear standoffish.

SCANDINAVIA AND FINLAND

Meeting and Greeting1. Business meetings follow a planned agenda. It is

essential to arrive on time.2. Scandinavians get down to business without

delay; they will have done their home work and expect you to have facts and figures at your finger tips.

3. Avoid exaggeration. Speak softly and dispassionately, avoiding a hard sell. Look people directly in the eye.

4. People are introduced by their family name and title – Mrs. Mehta, Dr. Shinde – except in Finland, where the first name is often included.

5. The standard greeting in Denmark is “Heij”, much like an American’s “Hi”. In Norway people say “Morn” no matter what the hour of the day.

6. Upper class Swedes, in order to avoid the excessive familiarity of the pronoun “you”, will ask your health in third person:”And how is Mr.

Narang today?”. You should respond in kind.

7. The Danes dress with a high degree of formality. Dress in Sweden can be more relaxed but colours are subdued. In Norway and Finland, people may wear suits in winter, but in summer months they may switch to jackets with or without ties.


1. Business often extends into lunch.

2. If a woman extends a invitation, she will pick up the check.

3. The protocols vary only slightly from country to country.

5. Always arrive on time. A gift of chocolates or flowers will be appreciated.

6. You may be served a drink before dinner, or you may be ushered directly into the dinning room.

7. To toast is to skal, and when done properly it follows a time honoured formula – particularly in Sweden and Denmark. No one touches his glass until the host proposes the first toast.

Social Taboos

1. Other than shaking hands avoid physical contact.

2. Scandinavians and Finns tend to stand at least four feet apart while conversing.

3. Talking with your hands in your pockets seems overly casual, but folding your arms looks like arrogance.

4. Refrain from asking personal questions.

5. Keep body language subdued and contain any urge toward exuberance

SPAIN

Nothing in Spain matters more than personal relationships. These take time to develop.


1. First half hour of meeting will be polite conversation to set you at ease .Do expect interruptions and cross conversations as negotiations proceed.

2. For Mediterranean people, the Spanish can be unusually direct. Respond diplomatically; the last thing you want is to offend a Spaniard”s pride.

3. Spanish take a leisurely approach to time –be ready to wait.4. Spanish friends sometimes greet each other with an abrazo, or

hug, but business greetings are more reserved.

5. Handshakes with everyone is normal, accompanied by an exchange of cards at the first introduction.

6. Visitors should have cards printed in both English and Spanish and present them with Spanish side up.

7. Men dress in muted colours and suits of conservative cut and women strive for quiet elegance.


1. The Spanish use meals to cement business relationship.

2. A restaurant lunch may begin at 1P.M. and continue until 3P.M.

4. When office hours end, many business people can be seen migrating through a succession of bars and tabernas for a moveable feast of tapas-hors d’oeuvres that range from salted nuts to saucers of squid, sausage or potato omelet.

5. People sit down for dinner at 10 or 11 P. M.6. Invitations to dine at home are a great honour. The proper

etiquette is to decline it first and then accept when pressed.

Social Taboos

1. Until invited to do so, do not address colleagues by first names or use the familiar tu form when speaking Spanish.

2. Say nothing derogatory about bull fighting.3. In conversation, avoid sensitive topics such as religion, as well

as separatist movements among Basques and Catalans.

SWITZERLAND

1. It has four official languages : French, German, Italian and a Latinate dialect called Romanish. Manners and customs vary from region to region, depending upon the language spoken.

2. Residents of Zurich behave and think like Germans, while in Geneva the cultural climate is distinctly French.

3. The Swiss share a tradition of hard work, punctuality, formal courtesy, personal privacy and a serious attitude towards life in general. People do not mix business with pleasure.

4. When dealing with the Swiss, a conservative approach is best.

5. On public transportation, give your seat to anyone who is elder.

6. You will need two cards for every business appointment, one for secretary and one for person you are meeting.

BELGIUM


1. Business meetings tend to be formal and highly focused; punctuality is essential.

2. Address colleagues by their surnames, prefaced by “Mr.”

“Mrs.”, or “Miss” in Flemish circles, and by“Monsieur” or “Madame” when dealing with French speakers.

3. Shake hands with everyone on your arrival and departure.

4. Women hold important positions both in business and government.

.

Visiting and Entertainment

1. Belgians justly pride themselves on their food

2. When invited to dine, make sure to show your appreciation

Social Taboos

1. Belgians tend to be reserved and private, so avoid asking personal questions.

2. “What do you do ?” is not the way to start.

3. Never enter a room or an office without knocking.

4. To confuse a Flemish person with a Walloon, or vice versa, would be an unforgivable lapse.

EASTERN EUROPE

THE CZECH REPUBLIC


1. When making appointments in the Czech Republic, keep in mind that Czechs consider Friday afternoons the beginning of the weekend.

2. Business open early every day, usually around 8 A.M., and close at 3 or 4P.M.

3. You are expected to be punctual for meetings. The typical Czech greeting is handshakes all around, to everyone.


1. Your Czech business associates will want to establish a personal relationship before getting down to business and that will include invitations to restaurant and homes.

2. Business ,however, should not be conducted during a meal or social function.

3. A bouquet of flowers is just the gift to take to your hosts.

4. In some households, it is the custom to remove your shoes upon entering the home;others do not observe this old tradition.

5. Toasting throughout the main meal is common.

6. Conservative business dress is recommended.

Social Taboos

When a man and woman walk down the street, the man should never take the inside position ; he should always walk closest to the curb.

POLAND


1. Poles are among the most genial and hospitable people of Eastern Europe – in spite of what might appear to be a somber demeanor.

2. Work day begins early, around 8 A.M.

3. Try to be punctual for meetings, don’t always expect the same from your Polish business associates.

4. Be prepared to shake hands, but try not to do so over a door threshold; the Poles consider it bad luck.


• Poles love to socialize and enjoying staying up late doing so.

• An invitation to get together over drinks may be conveyed through body language; when a Pole wants a friend to join him for a drink, he will flick his finger against his neck.

• Conservative business attire is recommended.

Social Taboos

1. Shouting is a no – no: Poles speak softly and expect others to do the same.

2. Don’t litter or throw trash in anything but a trash receptacle.3. When dinning, keep your hands out of your lap and above the

table.

RUSSIA


1. You should be punctual for any meeting, even though your Russians associates may always be on time.

2. On first meeting, your Russian counterparts will often state their names as you shake hands. Be sure to maintain direct eye contact.

3. Address each Russian business associate by using his title and surname, unless otherwise directed.

4. Know that Russian business people are very cautious in making business decisions – be patient

5. Be prepared to witness some emotional “acting out” on the part of your Russian counterparts, who may walk out of a meeting in a huff more than once. Be patient; They will be back.

Visiting and Entertaining1. When shaking hands, Russians generally say your name,

and you are expected to respond in kind.2. Russians go all out when entertaining at home. Expect

lavish meals accompanied by lots of Vodka and toast.3. Keep in mind the Russian’s love of children and respect

for the elderly when considering appropriate topics of conversation.

4. Business dress is very conservative. Social Taboos1. Drop off your coat in the cloak room before entering a

public building and do not loiter.2. Avoid shouting or laughing loudly in public.3. As in Poland, don’t litter ; most Russians consider doing

so offensive.4. When dinning, place wrists lightly on the table, and keep

your hands out of your lap.

THE MIDDLE EAST

SAUDI ARABIA: Meeting and Greeting1. Make appointments well in advance , and arrive on time-

but do not expect your Saudi counterpart to follow the same schedule you do.It is customary to make visitors to wait.

2. Dress conservatively: coat and tie for men, and for women long skirts, high necklines and long sleeves.

3. Greetings are warm and effusive, with the hand often grasped and held rather than shaken.

4. Use formal titles of address: Dr.Mahmoud , Prince Abdula.

5. Business cards will be exchanged- they should be in Arabic and English.

6. Expect lengthy conversation, multiple participants, numerous cups of coffee, and frequent interruptions.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Skip a meal before you go for dinner at a Saudi home.

Arab hospitality is proverbially lavish. Refuse nothing, and eat with relish- but not with the left hand.

2. In traditional home, be prepared to remove your shoes.3. A small gift-flowers or candy- is appreciated but not

expected. Social Taboos1. The “thumbs up” gesture is considered rude. 2. Be careful never to criticize or correct anyone, not

even on obvious points of fact.3. Refrain from discussing religion, regional politics, or

sex.4. Avoid telling jokes, which may be misinterpreted.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ( UAE )

UAE is a federation of seven Emirates - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Meetings and Greetings• Less than half of the UAE’s inhabitants are Arabs, though

over 70% are Muslim.• Meetings generally begin with small talk and an offer of

tea, Arabic coffee or soft drink.• It would be thought rude to get straight down to business

without enquiring, for instance, about the health of your hosts first.

• Discussions should not be brought to a sudden close even if you are pressed for time ( impatience is regarded as bad manners ).

Visiting and Entertaining• Shaking hands on arrival and departure is the norm,

although Arab men do not usually shake hands with women.

• Women should wear a conservative skirt or trousers and jacket and ensure that necklines are modest.

• Business entertaining is usually lavish and in the western style - often at a five star hotel.

• An authentic feast may feature a whole sheep served on a bed of rice.This should be eaten with the fingers of the right hand only as the left hand is considered unclean.

• Food should be passed and received with either the right hand or both hands.Most Muslims do not drink.

• Wait for your host to signal that the evening has come to an end - indicating that you are ready to leave would be taken as a insult.

Social Taboos

• Arabs look badly on displays of ill-temper or annoyance and negotiations are generally good humored and informal.

• Keep in mind that it is offensive to sit with the soles of your shoes exposed to sight.

• If planning a business trip, avoid the month of Ramadan when working hours are greatly reduced.

TURKEY


1. Make appointments well in advance, preferably with a letter of introduction from a mutual friend. Be prompt.

2. A hand shake is the accepted greeting for both men and women.

3. Meetings start with extensive small talk designed to establish friendship and trust. Then the haggling starts. Age commands respect, and so always defer to the eldest person at the table. In most negotiations , an elder will make the final decision.

4. Dress up conservatively. Women should choose long sleeves, modest necklines, and hem lines that cover the knees.

5. Take plenty of business cards.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Most entertaining occurs at restaurants and you will find it

impossible to pick up the check; unless you are the host ,do not even try.

2. If invited to a private home, take flowers or candy, or a bottle of wine if you know your host imbibes.

Social Taboos

1. Unless you know someone very well, use last names only.2. Don’t cross your legs or show the soles of your shoes.3. Show respect to elders: shake hand with the oldest person first

and rise when an older person enters the room. Never precede an older person through a doorway.

4. Do not cross your arms when facing someone and keep your hands out of the pocket.

5. Never openly disagree with a colleague in public.

AUSTRALIA


1. Don’t be fooled into thinking that because of the easy going nature of Australians you can be little late to a meeting.Punctuality is important.

2. Australians tend to get down to business fairly quickly in an effort to make a quick decision.

3. Their customs are so akin to those in USA that any missteps are unlikely.

4. Men shake hands but women rarely shake hands with one another. Australians are informal enough to quickly move to first names.


• An after work visit to the pub is a long- standing tradition.

2. Tipping customs are the same as those of New Zealand.

3. If invited to a Australian home, take a bottle of one of the many topnotch Australian wines.

4. Standards of business dress are the same as those in USA.

Social Taboos

Be careful with imitating Australianisms :Saying “G’day, mate” instead of “Good Morning” or “Hello” will be taken as patronizing by some business people.

NEW ZEALAND

Meeting and Greeting1. Meetings are often held in a hotel or restaurant, but usually

after an initial meeting at the office.

2. Arrive a little early for a meeting.

3. Start out on the more formal side; New Zealanders will warm to you, but not as quickly as Australians.

4. Women shake hands with women , but a man should let a woman extend her hand first.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Arrive on time; the fashionably late doesn’t cut it here.

2. If you are invited to dinner, it will be for social, not business, reasons. Lunch on the other hand is for business.

3. Tipping isn’t customary in a hotel or taxi, but is not uncommon in restaurants when it is justified.

4. A taxi driver who goes beyond the usual run of service won’t be offended by a tip.

5. New Zealanders dress slightly more conservatively than Australians when doing business, but they are as casual at other times.

Social Taboos

1. Don’t discuss race.

2. Calling attention to yourself in any way, such as talking loudly or back-slapping, stands out all the more here.

AFRICA

MEETINGS & GREETINGS - EGYPT& NIGERIA1. Be prompt for any meeting , but don’t expect the same from

your Egyptian associates.

2. The business process takes much longer than the West.

3. Greet your Egyptian associates with a firm handshake.

4. Egyptian men like to get physically close to those they are

conversing with.

5. Egyptian often walk hand in hand – and that includes male friends.

6. Africans place great import on respect for the elderly.

7. They are also tolerant of beggars; if your host gives to a

beggar , you can certainly follow suit.


1.Most Egyptians are Muslims , they are prohibited

from drinking alcohol and eating pork.

2. Private clubs and hotels often serve alcohol.

3. Egyptians find great pleasure in entertaining

foreigners.

4. Dinner is often served late in the evening.

5. It is rude to clean your plate , always leave

something uneaten.

Business Attire

1. Dress conservatively in Egypt.

2. For women , modest dress is the rule.

3. Nigerian women hold prestigious positions and

are not held back because of their gender.

4. Women have more rights in Egypt than in some

other Muslim countries.

Social Taboos

1. Avoid crossing your legs in public or pointing at

anyone.

2. Giving someone the “ thumbs up” signal is

considered rude.

3. If you see someone tapping his forefingers

together , know that it is a crude reference to sex.

SOUTH AFRICA

Meetings and Greetings

1. South Africans are in their office by 8 A. M.

2. Arrange early- morning meetings.

3. Spend little time on social chatter, prefer to get down to business. ( White South Africans )

4. In the native African culture, men generally precede women into and out of room.

Visiting and Entertaining• Expect to be entertained by South Africans.

2. Barbecues, called braais, are popular forms of entertaining.

3. Be sure to contribute to a braai in some way, with a bottle of wine or dessert.

4. Khaki shirts & bermuda shorts help beat the heat.

Social Taboos1. Handshakes differ among blacks and whites.

2. Whites greet each other with the standard handshake only, whites and other blacks greet blacks with the standard handshake, followed by a grasping of thumbs and return to the standard grip.

ASIA

CHINA


1. A gentle bow of the head and a handshake is appropriate, with lowering of the eyes to signify respect.

2. Address people by title or position followed by last name: Systems Director Chin.

3. Business cards should be bilingual, with Chinese characters in black or gold.

4. Never tuck the card in your wallet and then put your wallet in your back pocket.

5. Send a list of your delegation in order of rank and the items under discussion before the meeting.

6. Be punctual. Chinese visitors to your office may arrive 15 minutes early- in order to save your time.

7. Negotiating teams sit on opposite side of the conference table.

8. The top Chinese rep will enter the room first and he will do the talking – you follow suit.

9. Speak slowly in a quiet voice, avoiding undue eloquence or emotion. Chinese saying “ Those who know do not speak; those who speak do not know”

10. Western- style suits and ties of conservative cut are in fashion.

11. Loud colours are never appropriate for men & women.

Visiting and entertaining1. Business entertainment usually takes the form of a restaurant

banquet. These tend to be lavish affairs of two hours or more with 20 or more courses and many toasts.

2. Arrive at the appointed hour. The honored guest will sit facing the door.

3. If no serving spoon is provided, us the reverse of the chopsticks. Never take the last morsel.

4. Let your host make the first toast and remember to small sips. Leave a bit of food on your plate at the end.The next day send a thank you note.

5. The Communist law barring gifts to Chinese officials has been relaxed.

6. It is good manners to refuse a gift three times and then accept it with a reluctance.

7. Good gifts include scotch or cognac, food,and high quality ballpoint pens.

8. Avoid giving clocks. Straw sandals and handkerchiefs

( are associated with funeral ) or anything sharp, such as knives and scissors (connotes severing of relationship)

9. Wrap presents in bright colours. Avoid white.

Social Taboos1 Avoid the colours white, black and blue, all considered

funeral.

2. Remember that the number FOUR is considered unlucky

3. Point with your whole hand, never a single finger; to

beckon, hold your palm down and bring your fingers

towards you in a scooping motion.

HONG KONG


1. They greet people with handshake.

2. Though they are western educated and observe western customs and habits, at heart they are traditional.

3. Must show respect and humility in your dealings with them.

4. Time is of essence and business is done on fast track. You have to think on your feet and move quickly and seize opportunities as they arise.

5. They are shrewd negotiators and are not afraid to take risks.

6. Be prepared to work long hours.

7. Being late signifies lack of serious interest


• Working relationships are cultivated by socializing out side office .

• Business entertaining is done over lunch / dinner .• Be sensitive and flexible.• Business entertaining may take place over a lunch of

dim sum or at a business dinner, which can span ten or more courses.

• Allow plenty of time to travel between appointments, as roads can be very congested in Hong Kong.

INDONESIA


1. On first meeting someone, Indonesians offer a gentle handshake and after that a nod or slight bow.The older the other person, the deeper the bow.

2. Men will shake women’s hand on meeting, but subsequent physical contact in public considered unseemly.

3. Business cards are essential, but put any given to you in your jacket pocket.

Visiting and entertaining1. When invited to a social event it is customary to show up a

little late. But if someone of higher rank is expected, be sure to get there first.

2. It is polite to take flowers when invited to dinner.

3. People dress in light weight cotton garments due weather. Jackets and ties are customary for formal business meetings,but jacket will probably be removed.

Social Taboos1. Among some Indonesians it is rude to pound your fist into the

palm of your hand. Don’t point.

2. Never refuse a gift, but wait until later to open it unless urged otherwise.

3. Don’t be surprised to see men holding hands, which is customary. Never touch anyone of the opposite sex in public.

JAPAN

Meeting and Greeting Only team players will succeed in Japan’s group oriented culture.

1. Most Japanese businessmen will shake hands with Westerners, but on meeting each other they are quite likely to bow. The more senior the other person, the deeper the bow.

2. Business cards should be in both English and Japanese.

3. Be modest and reserved, avoiding large movements and expansive gestures.

4. Always use last names: Dr. Saito, or Saito-san.Never use first names unless invited to do so.

5. Business appointments should be made in advance, and punctuality is essential.

6. Determine the agenda and stick to it- no surprises !

7. Speak slowly & expect long pauses while everyone considers the issue at hand. If someone closes his eyes and appears to nod off, don’t be alarmed- he is concentrating on what you are saying.

8. Never try to hurry the meeting along, and do not push too hard on deadlines- they will simply walk away.

9. Remember that word “NO” is never used.

10. Wear nothing that will make you stand out. Japanese businessmen favour blue or gray suits and white shirts. For women,modest sleeves & necklines, low heels and conservative make up.

11. Wearing slip-on shoes will facilitate their necessary removal in Japanese-style restaurants and homes.

12. Be careful not to display negative emotions or be too abrupt, which might cause embarrassment or loss of face.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Except to be treated to lavish restaurant dinners and

drinking parties at Karaoke bars. Arrive on time.2. When entering a Japanese- style room with tatami

floors, remove your shoes; slippers will be provided.3. Allow your host to do the ordering and protest that he is

too generous. Dexterity with chopsticks is advised.4. When you are the host, set an example by ordering from

the high end of the menu.5. After a festive evening, with copious libations of scotch

and sake, the Japanese tend to forgive all but the most egregious lapses of decorum.

6. The Japanese exchange gifts on virtually every occasion.Gifts should be wrapped in lightly tinted (never white) paper, presented & received with both hands, offered at an inconspicuous moment,and opened after the donor has departed.

Social Taboos

1. After an initial handshake, avoid physical contact: Japanese people don’t liked to be touched.( Oddly the non contact rule is suspended in crowded streets and subways)

2. Avoid looking people directly in the eye lest you invade their privacy.

3. Never boast; a self- effacing manner carries you farther.

4. Never say “No” or “I can’t do it”.

SOUTH KOREA


1. Like most East Asians, Koreans work hard and put in long hours.

2. Business meetings follow the same pattern as in Japan and Hong Kong .

3. Westerners are greeted with a handshake accompanied by a brief eye contact, which indicates sincerity. Korean women do not ordinarily shake hands.

Visiting and Entertaining1. When visiting a traditional Korean house, you will be

expected to remove your shoes and sit on the floor.

2. Men sit cross-legged, women with their feet tucked under them.

3. Never stretch your legs out straight or touch anyone with your feet.

4. Bring a gift of fruit, flowers, liquor or perhaps fine coffee or tea.

5. Some Korean entertainments for men are lavish affairs and might include entertainment by women known as kisaeng, the Korean equivalent of the Japanese geisha.

THAILAND ( The Land of Smiles )

Meetings and Greetings 1. The traditional Thai salutation is the wei – palms together at

chest level, accompanied by a slight bow.2. Foreigners, both men and women, are usually met with a

handshake.3. Thais often address one another by first names, usually

preceded by a title. Don’t be surprised when someone calls you Mr. Ravi or Dr. Betty.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Be aware that the wives of Thai businessmen are expected to

be included in business dinners.2. Great stress is placed on personal neatness, with a dark jacket

and tie for men and conservative dresses for women recommended for business settings.

Social Taboos1. Never touch anyone on the head, especially children.2. Don’t walk in front of a person who is praying.3. Never touch a Monk; women should avoid handing

anything to monks, who are forbidden all contact with females.

4. It is rude to point your foot at anyone or to show the soles of your shoes.

5. When entering a Thai home, make sure not to tread on the door sill, since the spirit of the house is said to reside there.

6. Outbursts of temper should be avoided, as well as public displays of affection between men and women.

LATIN AMERICA

ARGENTINA

Meetings and Greetings

1. Argentines are typical Latin's and place great weight on developing a friendly relationship with foreign business associates before getting down to work.

2. Rushing through a agenda and dashing out is considered impolite.

3. Expect to be greeted with a handshake, and maintain good eye contact with your hosts through the meeting.

.

Visiting and Entertaining 1. Argentines work long hours and don’t usually eat dinner until

after 10 P. M. They often take a break between

4 P. M. And 6 P. M.,when they may a snack and coffee.

2. Steakhouses are likely choice of dinner so if you are a vegetarian, you must let your hosts know before you arrive.

3. Dress by comparison is conservative – and often, quite elegant.

Social Taboos1. Yawning in public or eating on the street are considered

rude.

2. Placing your hands on your hips is construed as a challenge.

3. Never put your feet on the table.

BRAZIL

Meeting and Greeting1. Brazilians are physically demonstrative and effusive,

but when it comes to doing business, they prefer a leisurely tack.

2. Leave the aggressive business tactics at home.3. When the meeting ends, say good bye to each person,

not the group.4. Men and women shake hands when greeting and men

may prolong the shake for an introduction.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Although business lunches are more common than

business dinners, after-office hours entertaining is often to be expected in Brazil.

2. Dinner time is a loose concept; you may sit down to dine anywhere from 6P. M. to 11 P. M.

3. Parties in Brazilian homes can last into the wee hours.

4. While the dress in Brazil is considerably less formal than that in other Latin countries, businessmen and women should dress conservatively.

Social Taboos

The sign OK in the United States ( thumb and fore finger touching ) is considered a vulgar gesture in Brazil.

CHILE

Meeting and Greeting1. Remember Chileans take vacations in Jan and Feb.2. Initial meetings are usually a time to get acquainted,

making further meetings necessary.3. Don’t ask a Chilean on meeting what line of work

he’s in ( considered a bad form ), let him broach the subject first.

Visiting and Entertaining1. When dining, keep your hands above the table, not in

your lap, and pour wine with your right hand only or let the hosts do the pouring ( Chileans have specific wine-pouring rituals )

2. Select a gift while going to a home for the host.

3. Flowers are always welcome but avoid yellow flowers, which symbolize contempt.

4. Chileans look askance at a businesswoman who wears

revealing outfits or is too done up.

Social Taboos

1. Avoid discussing religion or politics in this conservative country.

2. Don’t raise your right fist to head level, which is taken as a Communist sign.

MEXICO

Meeting and Greeting1. Meetings tend to be disorganized, with schedules and

attendance lists not always strictly adhered to.2. Meetings also usually run longer than expected and are

frequently interrupted. ( Never betray any irritation )3. Men shake hands with men and women with women.4. It is polite for a man to slightly bow when being introduced to

a woman.5. Eye contact is important during introductions.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Mexicans love entertaining and festive occasions.2. Business lunches are a long drawn affair lasting from 3. 2 P. M. to 4 P. M.

3. When you enter a party, give a slight bow to everyone in the room.

4. The standard of your attire is taken as signaling your attitude toward the people with whom you are doing business.

Social Taboos

1. Mexicans are very physical and like to get close to whomever they are talking with. Try to avoid pulling away; it is considered rude.

2. Keep your hands out of your pockets.

3. If you are taking a present ,avoid yellow flowers which symbolize death, and knives, which symbolize severing of a friendship.

PERU

Meeting and Greeting1. Meetings are more structured than in many Latin American

countries.

2. Peruvians are not particularly punctual, although they expect you to be on time.

3. Men and women shake hands when greeting and saying good-bye, and friends of the same sex walk arm in arm.

Visiting and Entertaining1. Business lunches are very popular but no business talk.

2. When dining keep both hands on the table, not in your lap.

3. Sending red roses before or after the party , may be perceived as a romantic gesture.

4. Traditional business dress is expected, with anything that appears overstated or revealing. For casual dress, shorts are frowned on for both women and men.

Social Taboos

1. Do not wear native Indian clothing , which can cause offense .

2. Refrain from discussing local politics.

VENZUELA

Meeting and Greeting1. Venezuelans often like to get more or less straight to

the point in meetings.2. Let the Venezuelan assume control and direct the

socialization period so common in Latin America.3. Venezuelans are a demonstrative people,always ready

to hail a friend with a hearty abrazo.


1. Venezuelans rarely entertain at home, it is a high honour to be invited into one – be sure to give your hosts effusive thanks and a quality gift, such as imported liquor.

3. Business lunches are generally initiated by your Venezuelan business associates, not you

4. Venezuelans tend to be more fashion – conscious than the citizens in many other Latin American countries, and appreciate fine accessories; still women should never dress in revealing clothing.

5. As in Peru, shorts are not appropriate casual dress for visitors, although Jeans are worn with a jacket.

Social Taboos

Avoid being too attentive to a member of the opposite sex, particularly a Venezuelan business associate’s spouse; your intentions might easily be misinterpreted.