🤝 Business etiquette in different countries: top 10 features

Business etiquette sounds boring, I admit, but what hilarious and embarrassing stories you can get into if you are suddenly not familiar with the traditions of the country. It is clear that if you are going to enter into an agreement with foreign investors, you have probably already become familiar with the rules for conducting business negotiations in the chosen country. But even if you “only” have to participate in an international conference, you should understand what awaits you and what will be expected of you.

When preparing to meet foreigners, study the norms of communication, dress codes, the characteristics and meanings of certain gestures, topics that are never raised at the table, and much more.

Of course, universal rules have long been invented that apply in almost any country. For example, respect for religion, holidays, food. And globalization is not asleep, but rules are rules.

Features of business etiquette in Asian countries

In Asia you can really get into trouble if you don’t know some rules of business etiquette. It would be a shame if the deal fell through because you bowed incorrectly or disrespectfully threw someone else’s business card into your bag.

In China and Japan, you should not show your emotionality, and especially actively show it in the form of hugs, even among friends, violent gestures or a raised tone. 

In Asia, traditions and hierarchy are respected. Each member of the delegation will always have a specific role and clear functions that the person must perform.

During negotiations, residents of Asian countries almost always take a wait-and-see approach: they listen carefully to their partners, but do not comment. They share their vision of the situation only at the end of the event. It is almost impossible to hear a clear and direct “no” from them – this is a gross violation of their business ethics. They will soften a negative answer in every possible way or try to veil it with phrases like “We need to think about a lot.”

If you violate etiquette yourself, no one will say anything about it, but most likely they will hint at it with their behavior. 

Japan

The traditional greeting in Japan is a deep bow: the lower, the better. This is how you show the degree of your respect. Handshakes are not so popular, although, of course, they won’t look at you askance and most likely will extend their hand in return. You cannot call by name; this is only permissible for family or close friends.

You will never understand anything from the face of the Japanese. They have been trained in restraint since childhood and have excellent self-control. The same is expected of you. Try not to get too emotional. They always receive a lot of questions; if you discuss documents, expect clarification on literally every point. 

China

The Chinese are very fond of all sorts of rules. Therefore, no delays. When meeting, it is customary to greet your partner with a slight bow. Although times are changing. And even in China, a light handshake is already enough. You should address people by their last name (it comes first), adding the person’s official position or the respectful “Mr.”

The Chinese like to break down all business meetings into stages, “test the waters,” identify the leader among the opposing team, and direct all attention to one “important person.” Therefore, negotiations may drag on.

You can give gifts, but not expensive ones. It will be highly appreciated if you arrive at the meeting a little earlier than the appointed time. You cannot give the Chinese anything in the amount of four, and also a watch. They are associated with death in Chinese culture .

India

Men in India greet each other with a handshake and women bow slightly. It is strictly forbidden to touch women. Hindus love their cultural traditions. Therefore, if you are invited to visit, you can expect, for example, necklaces made of fresh flowers – this is a sign of special favor. Late arrivals are acceptable, but within reason.

USA

In the States and Europe, business etiquette, of course, is also important, but much less formal. 

Americans are not characterized by rigid officialdom, but you shouldn’t rush to them with hugs either. It is customary to start a meeting with a light handshake. A wide smile is welcome. From the very beginning they can easily communicate with you, call you by name and start having casual conversations on abstract topics, the notorious small talks. 

In the USA, people are very punctual and do not tolerate being late. In business relationships, gifts are not accepted, even symbolic ones. But if you are invited to dinner, then a national souvenir, wine or bouquet is normal.

There is no need to discriminate between people of different genders, no kissing a woman’s hand or compliments not related to work. 

Unlike Asians, Americans will not evade a clear answer. They are always determined to succeed, practical and persistent, and value their time. Sometimes they may even rush you. 

Great Britain

The British also do not tolerate lateness, but arriving for dinner earlier than the agreed time is a sign of disrespect. A handshake when meeting is mandatory.

Residents of the UK do not receive warm and sincere greetings. Therefore, do not expect wide smiles – prepare for reserved communication to the point. Be sure to remember the titles and titles of your partners. 

They are unlikely to invite you home, but an informal meeting in a theater, restaurant or pub is a completely realistic option. 

During negotiations, the British also behave rather restrained, they never try to put pressure on their opponents, they listen carefully, but do not delude yourself, they also defend their interests well. They respect their personal space, so try not to violate it again. They expect you to avoid categorical judgments and generalizations. 

Germany

The basis of German business etiquette is three “pillars”: punctuality, clarity, conservatism. You can only address yourself as “you” and by your last name. No familiarity or use of “you” in business communications. 

During negotiations, it is customary for the Germans to discuss issues in the order in which they were stated and to avoid jumping around. Until you thoroughly discuss one topic, you will not move on to another. Being late is considered a sign of unreliability. Therefore, it is better to reschedule the meeting than to be late. Otherwise, they will try not to do business with you anymore. The Germans prepare documents meticulously and expect the same from you. 

If there is a dress code, it should be adhered to 100%, no unbuttoned shirt collars or necklines. 

France

The French are more loyal to punctuality than the Germans and the British, but still try not to be late or warn early that you will be late. 

Gifts can be given. As is possible in the USA, they will not consider it a bribe, but try to choose something non-trivial, ideally related to art and culture.

If you are invited to dinner, this is a sign of great respect; it is not customary to refuse and come empty-handed, as well as to remain silent at the table. In France, good informal conversation is valued. If you try to say at least something in French, they will definitely appreciate it. It is worth remembering the phrase explaining that you do not speak French and only then switching to English. Negotiations should be conducted together with a translator. It is customary in conversation to add “Monsieur” or “Madame” to the interlocutor’s surname. 

Spain

The Spaniards are very open and friendly people. The first meeting is always accompanied by a handshake. For people you already know, hugs and even kisses on the cheek are acceptable, especially between women. There are no problems with being late, but you shouldn’t expect punctuality in response. Don't make appointments during lunch hours. 

During negotiations, Spaniards always talk a lot and often lose the point or jump from question to question. So expect a lot of discussion. If you are given something, open the gift immediately and say thank you. 

Italy

There are legends about the temperament of Italians, so this also affects formal communication. Residents of this hospitable country can express themselves quite brightly and emotionally, actively gesturing and talking loudly. They may hug at the first meeting or shake your hand for a long time – this is par for the course.

Never schedule business meetings during lunch hours. If you are invited to visit, you should still come in a good suit or evening dress, and, of course, bring something to the table. Italians love to talk about family and hobbies, so actively support them in this if you want to please them. 

Italians are true connoisseurs of cooking, so often even negotiations take place in a restaurant. If you refuse Italian cuisine, you risk losing your partners. But it is also important to remember that the agreements reached during the feast mean little. Final and legally formalized decisions are made later. 

Business meetings in Italy never start with specific business issues. First, discuss something abstract, talk about life. Just don’t ask about family and politics and never criticize football.

And may you always be accepted as one of their own anywhere in the world and may your network of business contacts constantly grow. And you can make business trips using the services of Jerelo and Bubadrom.