Business Etiquette for a Global Business Scenario

Professionalism and business etiquette are very important in the global business economy.

In Mexico, a business lunch lasts several hours, and little of the discussion involves actual business. Mexican professionals use lunches to establish personal relationships. The Chinese, on the other hand, do not discuss business during meals. These are only two different social norms; in a global economy, there are thousands of business protocols and customs. Etiquette for a global business scenario involves a myriad of dynamics. Knowing how to behave goes a long way to making a favorable professional impression.

Attire and Grooming

Westerners often choose business fashions for comfort or style, but professionals from other parts of the world are sometimes more conservative. Your choice of business attire demonstrates respect and appreciation for your international counterpart and their organization. As a best practice, dress conservatively when you meet with foreign clients. Dressing provocatively, too casually, sloppily, or in such a way that signifies little thought has gone into your grooming will likely offend your business counterparts, on both native or foreign soil.

The Handshake

The handshake is a universally accepted method for meeting and greeting others. However, handshake styles vary widely from country to country. For instance, the American handshake typically includes a firm grip, two quick pumps and eye contact, while the Japanese handshake is light and short, and Middle Easterners continue with the handshake throughout their greeting. Some cultures, particularly those in Latin and South America, accompany the handshake with a kiss on the cheek, a friendly embrace, or a bow of the head to show respect.

Punctuality

The rules of punctuality vary widely in the modern global business landscape. If you are on business in Russia, expect to wait for your Russian counterpart one to two hours after the set appointment time. Russians use this strategy as a test of patience. Conversely, showing up early for a meeting in China is an excellent way to make a favorable impression with your host. In general, showing up on time is the best, universally accepted approach. However, do not display frustration or a negative attitude if your foreign counterpart shows up late and acts unconcerned.

Exchanging Business Cards

The proper way to exchange business cards in an increasingly diverse business market is to demonstrate respect for the other person. In most cases, wait for introductions to take place before handing someone your card. Present your card with the contact information facing the recipient so that they can easily read it. Use both hands to give your business card to your colleagues of Asian heritage. When someone gives you their business card, you should always look at it and acknowledge receipt. Show respect to the individual by putting it away thoughtfully; do not shove it into your pockets or haphazardly place it where you can easily lose or misplace it.

Personal Space

Different cultures the world over value physical space and public contact differently. If you are in a foreign country and your international colleague shows a preference for closer interactions, accept it. You may seem rude or offend your colleague if you back away or refute their norms for physical space. The standards for public contact also differ widely by geographic area. When in doubt, refrain from violating an individual's space by not touching them in any way other than with a handshake. In foreign countries, particularly those in the Middle East and Asia, you should wait for your colleague to initiate the handshake.

International Business Professionals

Whether the world travels to you or you venture out to foreign lands, the greatest compliment you can give your foreign counterparts is learning about their country and customs. Understand differences in behavior and cultural norms and honor them with your actions. Your international constituents will appreciate your business etiquette and professionalism, leading to mutually beneficial and collaborative global business relations.

References

• "CNN.com;" International Business Etiquette 101; Rachel Zupek
• The Sideroad: International Business Etiquette Tips