Global Business Etiquette Tips – Part One
May 2, 2013
Bill Gates found himself the topic of conversation last week—and it had nothing to do with technology. Tongues were wagging and heads were shaking in South Korea when Bill Gates greeted President Park Geun-hye with a one-hand shake, while his other hand was in his pocket.
Gates probably didn’t realize it, but a one-hand shake in Korean culture is done only when the other party is a good friend, of the same or younger age. In formal situations, greeting someone in a formal situation with a one-hand shake, with your other hand tucked into your pants pocket, is considered rude and disrespectful. The handshake, along with his open jacket, was way too casual and sparked a firestorm of controversy.
If you’re doing business around the world, you’re likely to make a cultural faux pas. Example: Did you know that in Brazil, your briefcase or bag should never be placed on the ground? When at a business meeting in Brazil, hang your bag on the chair or a hook.
Global business continues to expand—and it’s up to you to do your homework and put your best international foot forward when visiting another country for business. Having an awareness, and sensitivity, to their unique culture is extremely important and can affect the outcome of business communication. One small misstep, such as addressing an individual incorrectly, or not observing the rules of gift giving or timing, can be costly.
Here are some other global business etiquette and customs to consider:
In Great Britain, if someone taps his or her nose, it’s a signal that something is to be kept confidential. So keep a look out for that!
When meeting for business in China, Czech Republic, Bolivia or Japan, be sure to bring along a gift.
Speaking of gift giving, in the Chinese culture, certain gifts are associated with death and should never be given. These include: clocks, handkerchiefs, straw sandals and a stork or a crane.
If you’re dining out in Japan and China, you are not expected to leave a tip. Leaving a tip can be construed as offensive in these countries as it implies that the employee is undervalued by their employer. (Here’s a handy guide for tipping etiquette around the world.)
A few other things to note when traveling abroad: In India, cows are considered sacred, so refrain from ordering beef when attending a business dinner. In Saudi Arabia, it’s considered a popular gesture of friendship between men to hold hands while walking. Also of note, when dining in Islamic countries, it is inappropriate to eat with your left hand. Women visiting or doing business in Iran should always cover their arms, legs and hair.
When it comes to cultural etiquette, the first step in bridging the gap is awareness. Next week we’ll share 10 more global business etiquette tips that will help you navigate business with confidence no matter where you are in the world!
photo credit: Judy Vandervelden
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Business etiquette skills are essential to succeeding in business. Business leaders often value communication skills, including an awareness of proper business etiquette, as highly as technical skills. Improving etiquette may be as simple as changing what you wear or as complicated as learning about other cultures that you encounter in global business deals.