Business Etiquette: Asia

BUSINESS ETIQUETTE AROUND THE WORLD CAsia Misunderstanding cultural differences is one of the top reasons international business deals fall through. As the world's largest continent, Asia is also one of its most diverse--resulting in widely different business cultures and etiquette styles. China Saudi Arabia Japan Jndia Дороп The Japanese have a very rigid, formal business etiquette. EXCHANGING BUSINESS CARDS ("MEISHI") is one of the most important parts of an initial business meeting. WHEN EXCHANGING CARDS... Bow slightly, and offer your business card with both hands to your Japanese associates in order of seniority. Accept cards with both hands, and say "Thank you" (Hajimemashite). %23 Never flick, write on, or leave behind a business card. DURING MEETINGS... Take lots of notes, as it shows your interest. Always arrive early. Wait to be seated. The order of seating is important and has it's origins in samurai culture. DINING OUT WITH JAPANESE BUSINESS ASSOCIATES Is very common, as it allows them to judge your behavior both during and after business hours. ladakimasu Pachisausama-deshita It is polite to say Itadakimasu Don't be afraid to "slurp" your noodles-being loud means you enjoy the food! Offer to pour your host's drink for them, as they Never pass food using at the start of a meal, and chopsticks! This is a major Gochisousama-deshita taboo. will for you. at the end China Business in China is based on guanxi-"relationships" that have been cultivated into a network of personal influence. "FACE" "Face" is a major aspect of Chinese business culture, and crucial to establishing guanxi. It is a mix of public perception, social role, and Avoiding embarrassment and "saving face" are necessary for successful negotiations. self-esteem. As a foreigner, you can give "face" by... Showing your awareness of Chinese culture. Showing self-control and strength of character. Interacting with your associates professionally and personally. Giving expensive gifts. BE AWARE THAT... Aa In China, people are often wary of doing business with foreigners. Negotiations are drawn-out Hire an interpreter, though your Chinese associate may Signed contracts are not binding affairs that often involve many delays. understand your language without letting you know. GIUING GIFTS NO IS A COMMON In some cases, giving gifts is considered a bribe, and illegal Be aware of the rules and if a gift is absolutely declined, don't take offense. A gift will often be rejected PRACTICE IN CHINA three times before it is accepted. Jndia India's business culture is heavily influenced by it's complex social hierarchy and Western corporate culture. WHEN IT COMES TO GREETINGS... The traditional Indian greeting is the Namaste. Always use a person's professional title. NAME Only use your right hand when shaking hands or touching anything. RIGHT Men and women do not touch in greeting POLITENESS IS SUPREME! Business is often slow and involves many delays, Be persistent, and always approach others but you should not show anger or frustration. with a smile. Indians are very sensitive to rudeness. DON'T... OPEN Point with your finger. Dive into business without asking after your Indian business associate's life, family, hobbies, etc. Refuse an offered drink. SAY “NO" No! qU Thy "No" is cdnsidered Never refuse an invitation To be polite, most Indians will very harsh. outright; always offer an say "I will try" excuse. Saudi CArabia Religious observance is crucial to all aspects of life in Saudi Arabia, including business. The concept of Sha Allah ("If God Wills It") often translates into a lack of urgency by non-Islamic business associates. Business meetings must be scheduled around or allow time for daily prayer. ESTABLISHING A PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP With your Saudi business associate is extremely valuable. Many Saudi businesses are based around families and nepotism, and they prefer to work with only people they know and trust. Hire a Saudi point-person (wakeel) to help you navigate and arrange meetings with your contacts. Offer praises of your host, and humbly accept them in return. Meetings will rarely be private until you have earned that trust. They tend to start late or even be canceled when you arrive. TOUGH NEGOTIATING and haggling is an accepted part of Saudi culture, but so is compromise. When discussing price, the first price given is never the final offer. Loud and enthusiastic Saudi Arabia is very Appearances are very important; you will be judged discussions are a sign of bureaucratic-it can take interest and engagement. several trips to settle one deal. on your dress and style In Conclusion ALWAYS BE PREPARED WHEN GOING GLOBAL. DON'T MIiss OUT ON EXPANDING YOUR BUSINESS BECAUSE YOU DIDNn'I DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Sources. http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/ http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural etiquette/cultural etiquette.htm http://www.worldbusinessculture.com/business-with-other-countries.html http://www.tollfreeforwarding.com/blog/lost-in-translation-6-ways-to-lose-an-international-customer/ TollFreeForwarding. BUSINESS WITHOUT BORDERS