Business etiquettes around the world

Etiquette, manners, and cross cultural, or intercultural communication have become critical elements required for all International and Global Business executives, managers, and employees. 

The odds of making a social misstep increases when you travel abroad. Managers making business trips to other countries often find themselves trying to put their best foot forward but instead end up stepping on the toes of their hosts.

When it comes to doing business abroad, knowing how to navigate the cultural landscape can spell the difference between striking a deal and going home empty handed. Here are a few handy tips to come with the goods on your next trip:  

China

If you are in for long term business, then giving yourself a Chinese name is considered a sign of respect and commitment.

Bring a small gift from your hometown or country to business meetings.Chinese businesspeople appreciate presents. One gift to avoid: clocks as they represent death. Also, do not use white, black or blue wrapping paper.

The Chinese will decline a gift three times before finally accepting, so as not to appear greedy. You will have to continue to insist. Once the gift is accepted, express gratitude. You will be expected to go through the same routine if you are offered a gift.

Business meetings are very formal events and dinner meetings can feature many rounds of toasts; be sure to pace yourself so you don’t overindulge.

Switzerland

Shake hands with everyone when coming and going. The Swiss tend to be formal and address each other by last name with honorific titles like Mr. or Ms. They also are respectful of private lives and do not inquire deeply about personal subjects with colleagues. You should be careful not to ask about personal topics.

Punctuality is vital, something that stems from a deep respect for others’ time among the Swiss. Arrive at any meeting or event a few minutes early to be safe

During meals, the Swiss follow formal table manners. They also keep their hands visible at the table and their elbows off the table. It is polite to finish the food on your plate.

UK

British people conduct themselves in a polite and reserved manner in business. People are mindful of personal space and do not stand or speak too close. They also greet each other with handshakes but they should be lighter.

The British also tend to stick to schedules and expect punctuality in all matters of business, including meal times. You might also be invited to attend a cricket match or regatta in lieu of business meal. These are formal events and attendees should dress accordingly, in professional attire. Men should not wear shirts with pockets.

Japan

Japanese culture is very welcoming and formal. Expect each of your counterparts to bow during an introduction. Wait for them to initiate a handshake because it is less common, and sometimes avoided, in business.

The exchange of business cards is a very formal act that kicks off meetings. Present your card with two hands while facing your colleague. Do not conduct a brief exchange or slide your card across the table.

During meetings, the most senior person will lead discussions and members of his or her party may not say a word. Follow this lead and have the most senior member of your team participate in discussions.

When entering a meeting, you should sit across from your counterpart with a similar level of experience. Your junior staffers should not sit across from senior team members.

Brazil

Brazilians are regarded the world around for their warmth and friendliness, something that is also evident in the country’s business culture. Brazilians often stand close when talking and it is common for them to touch the person 

People often greet each other (particularly women) with light cheek kisses, even in business environments. 

Brazilians are social, preferring face-to-face communication over emails or phone calls. Personal relationships are of high importance in Brazilian business life, so conversations are likely to veer into what some cultures might consider private topics, such as personal lives and family activities. 

Brazilians schedule business meals at upscale, talked-about restaurants. Meals can stretch for hours — there’s no such thing as rushing a meal in Brazil.  Do not eat with your hands, even if it’s a sandwich.

Ghana

Be careful when making direct eye contact in Ghana. People in Ghana will generally not look straight into another person’ eyes when communicating, as this can be interpreted as rude. This is particularly true when talking to a superior or elder.

To gain a Ghanaian’s trust, it’s important to be sociable. Ghanaian society is tight-knit, and people depend on one another. Don’t act as if you’re different from the group.

South Africa

Don’t be taken back by South Africans’ hand-on approach as the culture can be quite tactile.

Back slapping and firm handshakes – often quite lengthy – are common, and it can be seen as a sign of aloofness if the foreign visitor backs away