Different Business Etiquettes In Different Cultures

The difference in Culture results in different sets of business etiquette and ethical practices from country to country. You can get success globally by respecting and adopting these practices.

Effective communication is one of the important components to succeed internationally; remaining adaptable to local protocol and etiquette is also essential. Some international customs are more unusual than others. Here are some unique international business customs.

India

If you are at a business dinner in India, Americans better be careful what they order. Those looking to make a good impression should refrain from digging into a juicy steak or hamburger during the dinner. Since the cow is considered a sacred animal in India, some can consider it a sign of disrespect to order any type of beef dish – or wear any type of leather – during a dinner.

United Arab Emirates

Left-handers may have some trouble doing business in the United Arab Emirates as in Islamic culture, the left hand is considered unclean and offensive to greet with. Thus, use only your right hand for handshakes, eating, or offering/receiving gifts.

China

People working in China better have a gift ready when ever they show up for a business meeting. However, don't expect it to be eagerly accepted. In China, the customary tradition is that gifts are refused up to three times before being accepted. It is important to continue offering your present until it is finally taken.

Australia

Australians are known for their laid-back lifestyle, but when it comes to business appointments, they are very punctual, more often than not.

With that in mind, it could be unwise to arrive late to a meeting in Australia. If you were ever given deadlines to work it, it’d be advisable to stick to them where possible.

United Kingdom

When doing business with British professionals, Americans shouldn't feel as if a game of charades is breaking out when the British start tapping their nose. Rather than a fun game, the tapping indicates that what is about to be discussed is private and confidential. It is important to look for that signal, or you risk sharing something the Brit had intended to keep secret from others.

Germany

German work culture is based on the idea of hard work and punctuality. Apart from taking business very seriously, Germans value their privacy and usually keep their office doors closed. Make sure to knock before entering someone’s office.

Spain

While deadlines are usually considered firm dates in the U.S., the same can't be said in Spain. In Spain, deadlines are viewed more as a guideline and not something that is frowned upon if missed. Americans shouldn't be insulted by this, but instead should schedule potential delays into any timelines.

France

The working environment in France is generally formal and conservative. Business meetings are usually brief, organized and very professional.

Avoid discussing personal life with someone you do business with. Business in France can be quite formal, and is usually kept separate from personal matters.

In short, it’s crucial to consider both workplace etiquette and corporate etiquette if you are looking to have successful and fruitful business dealings with contacts from other countries and cultures.