Multicultural Business Etiquette
If you're looking to expand your business to include international clients, it's important to be aware of the professional customs that are practiced in other countries to give your company a good impression. Being aware of the way that businesspeople in other countries negotiations or improve professional relations also shows tolerance and respect for other cultures.
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Business Attire
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While many professionals in countries, such as the United States, Norway and Turkey, dress in conservative suits that are usually black or navy blue, some countries embrace a rather casual dress code for the office. Businesspeople in Belize wear khaki pants and knit shirts to work, and sandals are acceptable footwear. And, in some business settings in Australia, jeans are acceptable. It is best for professionals to consult their international hosts concerning attire before arriving for the business meeting for clarity on which attire is permitted.
Arriving for the Meeting
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In most countries, it is considered proper etiquette to show up for a meeting on time. However, in Asian countries like China and Japan, businesspeople are expected to show up about five minutes ahead of the scheduled meeting time, since punctuality is high regarded in these parts of the world. In areas like Kenya and Bermuda, professionals should strive to be on time for meetings, but should call ahead if anything comes up. A considerable amount of time is spend in "small talk" before meetings in these countries, and international professionals are expected to participate in this exchange.
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Meeting Agendas
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In many cases, the host of the meeting will begin the business discussion; this is often the eldest person in the room, or the person who possesses the highest professional rank. In Germany, professionals get right to business very quickly, and have a regimented agenda that all colleagues are expected to follow. However, in France, the business meeting is held mainly for the purpose of discussion--decisions are not often made at the initial meeting. In Bahamas, professionals will schedule business meetings to inform colleagues of decisions that have already been reached, rather than to discussions about future business deals. It's important for businesspeople who are visiting these countries to be aware of meeting "agenda," as appearing impatient or disinterested is considered very rude.
Busines Cards
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In Japan and China, business cards are held in very high regard; they should be given and received with both hands, and should never be written on. It is also proper etiquette for international professionals to translate one side of the business card into Japanese or Chinese. In Bangladesh, the business card should be received with the right hand, and should not be folded. In Norway and Switzerland, there is no formal method for giving and receiving business cards, but it is generally expected that business cards be treated with respect,--the cards should not be shoved into one's pocket without reading the card first.
Gift Giving
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Some international professionals do not welcome or accept gifts from businesspeople of other countries, since the gift could be seen as a bribe. However, if a professional is invited to the home of a professional in Australia, it is acceptable to bring a small gift like flowers or chocolates; in Belgium, a gift of flowers or wine is expected if invited to a professional's home for dinner. In Kenya, small gifts are accepted if a professional relationship has already been established--gifts with the giver's company logo on them are best. If giving a gift of alcohol in countries, such as Iran, it is essential to find out whether the host drinks.
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References
- Photo Credit handshake image by Vasiliy Koval from Fotolia.com
