Taiwanese Business Etiquette
Taiwan's economy depends largely on trade from countries like the U.S. and Hong Kong, as the country manufactures machinery, textiles, and steel in large amounts. This is why international professionals should be aware of Taiwanese business etiquette--professional manners can increase trade and give a satisfactory first impression.
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Business Attire
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Office attire is still conservative in Taiwan, although this is beginning to change, as almost 55 percent of the population is under the age of the 30, according to the International Business Center. Women can wear separates such as a skirt and blouse to work; formal business suits are not required. Men should wear dark-colored suits in most business settings, although slacks and button-down shirts are acceptable in some offices.
Business Hours
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The standard business hours in Taiwan are similar to those in the U.S., and many Taiwanese professionals normally work from nine in the morning to five or five-thirty in the evening. However, it is not uncommon for business hours to be longer if necessary in Taiwan, since the professionals there believe strongly in hard work. Meetings should be scheduled in regular business hours, unless alternate instructions are given by a Taiwanese senior executive.
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Business Meetings
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Taiwanese professionals prefer to meet in person to discuss business, so phone or Web meetings are discouraged. At least one senior executive must be present at a business meeting, and the presentation should be directed to the executive. If documents are handed out during the meeting, they should be translated, as this shows respect for Taiwanese culture.
Body Language
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It is acceptable for both men and women to shake hands as part of a professional greeting, although shaking hands is often reserved for more casual meetings. Bowing is the best way to show respect to executives--the Taiwanese bow with their hands to their sides and their feet together. Nodding the head is also an appropriate way to greet professionals. During the meeting, it is not appropriate to touch someone's shoulders, or to make any motions with the eyes that resemble winking, as these gestures are considered rude in Taiwan.
Gift Giving
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It is acceptable to present Taiwanese executives with gifts, even during a first visit. When presenting a gift to professionals for the first time, it is best to choose items with the giver's company logo if possible. Gifts should be given and received with both hands. Taiwanese professionals do not open gifts in front of the giver as a sign of respect; this practice should be adhered to while in the country.
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References
- Photo Credit taiwan flag icon. (with clipping path) image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
