International Business Etiquette

China

Greetings

Ð'* Shake hands with everyone, even children

Ð'* Hong Kong Chinese may be uncomfortable with body contact, so do not hug or kiss

Ð'* It is polite to ask about a person’s health or activities as a greeting

Communicating

Ð'* You will often have to read between the lines when interacting with the Chinese

Ð'* Yes does not always indicate agreement, as no is not often said.

Ð'* Compliment the Chinese. When you are complimented, you should deny it to show humility

Dining

Ð'* When eating, always leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that your host has provided enough food

Brazil

Greetings

Ð'* Brazilians are known to be very risk-oriented and creative

Ð'* Make sure to individually greet and say goodbye to each person at a gathering

Ð'* Physical contact is common and acceptable. Brazilians stand very close together

Ð'* Appearance is very important. Dress well, stay at the best hotels and entertain at prestigious restaurants

Communicating

Ð'* Relationships are very important to Brazilians, and they will do anything for friends and family

Dining

Ð'* Meals often last two or more hours

Ð'* Do not discuss business at a meal unless your host brings it up

Ð'* Brazilians are very casual about time, so be prepared to wait for your colleagues

India

Greetings

Ð'* Greeting by placing hands together and slightly bowing while saying “Namaste” is polite and shows respect for Indian customs

Ð'* Indians value personal space, allow at least an arm’s length

Communicating

Ð'* Men do not touch women when meeting or greeting

Ð'* Only use your right hand to touch someone, as the left hand is considered unclean

Dining

Ð'* Arrive 15-30 minutes later than specified meeting time

Ð'* It is considered rude to begin a meeting with business talk, always make small talk about the person’s family or interests

Ð'* Business can be slow and difficult, so persistence is key

Ð'* When an Indian person says, “I will try” this is considered a polite “No”

When traveling and doing business overseas it is very important to understand the culture and customs of the country you are visiting.

This brochure offers some helpful hints for making your transition into a new culture as smooth as possible, specifically in a business setting in three countries that are very important to international business.

General Tips

Always research a country before visiting. Knowledge of culture and customs will not only impress your host, but can prevent potential misunderstandings and sticky situations.