Cross Cultural Business Etiquette
Business etiquette is a very sensitive subject for those doing business internationally. Much of business etiquette stems from what is or is not appropriate in the respective culture. It is generally best for any business person to research the customs and etiquette of other countries before traveling there for business.
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Language
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An international business traveler should always learn at least a few words in the language of the culture he is visiting. This effort will be accepted and appreciated in all countries and cultures. Basic understanding of a language can also mitigate any cross-cultural misunderstandings.
Greeting
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Greetings vary throughout the world. While it is generally acceptable for most business people to shake hands, this rule comes with caveats based on gender roles: a hand shake is the only acceptable public touch a man and woman can share in India; in Argentina, a man will not participate in a handshake unless the woman initiates it.
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Preparation
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The visiting business person and the host should each research the customs and practices of the other to avoid miscommunication or misunderstanding.
Gifts
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Business gift-giving etiquette varies greatly among various nations of the world. In China, recipients do not open gifts when they are received; in Africa, a gift is opened immediately. Some countries also hold a tradition of exchanging gifts on the first business meeting, so all international business people should research this topic before conducting cross-cultural business.
Business Cards
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Among most cultures, it is appropriate to exchange business cards. This is particularly relevant in Japan, where there is also value in examining the card for a long amount of time to convey respect.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sara Petagna Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mark Kobayashi-Hillary
