Business Etiquette: Little Know Ways to Impress Those That Matter
Paris, Rome, Mumbai, Tokyo – the term “6 Degrees of Separation” is even more realistic today than ever. Our world has shrunk. Think of your Facebook Friends, your Twitter Followers/Following not to mention the people you work with, hang out with, on a regular basis.
The company you work for is most likely incredibly global. As you work to market yourself for that next promotion, one way you can set yourself apart from others is by showing you are aware of the business etiquette basics and customs of many cultures. People actually notice!
Four areas of huge culture differences are colors, gestures, introductions, and greetings.
1. Color
Color is symbolic of different meanings in different countries. Think of this when giving gifts. Never use black bag or wrapping paper in Asian countries, as it is associated with death. Red however is symbol of good luck.
2. Gestures
North American gestures might be inappropriate or have completely different meanings elsewhere. In the Muslim countries, the left hand is seen as “unclean” using it for eating would be considered improper. In North America nodding your head up and down means “yes” and shaking it back and forth means “no”. In Sri Lanka it is just the opposite.
3. Introductions
In North America a person is introduced first by their first name, then last name. In China the last name is first, then the first name. Other cultures are also more formal than we are in North America it is always better to address some you have just met by Mr., Ms., or their professional title until you have been ask to address them be their first name.
4. Greetings
In the business setting you probably will always greet someone with a handshake. However, it is still a good idea to be sensitive to tradition and religious beliefs. In India people will greet each other with a handshake or Namaste, that’s putting your hands together –as in prayer – below the chin and giving a slight nod of the head. Also, in India, public displays of affection are not proper. Here again, don’t use the left hand for greetings or waving goodbye.
Since English is the International business language, people from other countries are aware of North American terms and customs. It’s not like you have to “walk around on egg shells”, but you will impress those around you if you are aware of Business Etiquette Basics and cultural differences. It’s always better to be safe than incredibly embarrassed. Who knows you might even prevent someone crucial to your own upward mobility from making a big mistake. Now that’s a great way to market yourself!
Thank you for reading – Theresa
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