Business Etiquette in Global Business Scenarios

Being aware of professional etiquette rules is essential when doing business internationally.

If you're going to be engaging in professional deals that involve businesspeople from other countries, being aware of business etiquette from a global perspective is crucial. Knowing how to greet a professional or behave in a business meeting can help to make a favorable impression that could result in a lasting professional partnership.

Business Attire

Many areas of the world, such as Asia and South Africa, have adopted a Western style of dress for professional purposes. Men are expected to wear a suit in dark gray, black or navy blue; and women can wear business blazers of the same color(s) with slacks or a skirt. In Latin American countries like Argentina or Brazil, fashion is important in the office. Women are permitted--and even expected--to wear figure-fitting clothing, and manicures are preferred.

Punctuality

In most business settings, punctuality is valued and appreciated, but some international clients will require timeliness more than others. When doing business with colleagues from Japan or Canada, being on time is the first step to making a good impression--meetings begin promptly, and may be conducted according to an agenda. While professionals in Kenya and Belize expect everyone to be on time for meetings, there is a considerable amount of small talk that takes place before the meeting actually begins.

Business Cards

Business cards are an important marketing tool that can be used to help professionals keep in contact with one another, particularly during negotiations. Japanese and Chinese businesspeople give and receive business cards with both hands, as these items are treated with great respect in these countries; it is also improper etiquette to write on or fold business cards. In Ethiopia the business card is given and received with the right hand. In Europe, particularly in countries like Denmark and Germany, there is no formal method for trading business cards, but it's best to treat the cards with respect in the presence of other professionals.

Negotiations

International professionals value relationships and often will take time to develop these relationships so that negotiations are not rushed. Businesspeople in Puerto Rico and the Middle East will often have lengthy conversations with colleagues in order to form trust; it is important for professionals from other pars of the world to avoid hard selling or persuasion, as this is seen as distasteful. In Russia, simple business decisions can often be made in a matter or minutes, while more complex negotiations can take more than one meeting; going out for drinks with Russian professionals after the meeting helps to strengthen the business partnership.

Gift Giving

In a global business setting, it is best to give small gifts that are not expensive, so that they are not seen as a bribe. In the Bahamas it is acceptable to give presents to a colleague for a birthday or Christmas if a relationship has been formed. In Australia it is not customary for professionals to exchange gifts, but flowers or wine can be presented to the host if a businessperson is invited to someone's home. In China it is not appropriate to exchange gifts at the first business meeting; after a favorable negotiation has been reached, it is acceptable to present gifts wrapped in gold or red paper.

References

• International Business Etiquette: International Business Etiquette and Manners
• Culture Crossing: Get to Know Your World