business etiquette around the world
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Business Etiquette around the World
Business Etiquette around the World
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Globalization is one of the best and fastest ways of growing your business, but
it comes with certain challenges.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Cultural differences result in different sets of business etiquette and ethical practices from
country to country.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Respecting and adopting these
practices can lead to your business's success globally.
Business Etiquette around the World
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There is an ongoing debate over whether businesses should adapt to the local environment or if there should be a standard set of principles for
business etiquette around the world.
Globalization, social media and technology, along with factors like environmental issues and political conflicts, continue to influence business
trends across the world.
Business Etiquette around the World
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The appropriate etiquette for business varies greatly from place to place and must be considered before entering into global markets.
I have compiled a few of the most important business etiquette tips for many of the popular regions for global business in the below sections.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Business in Europe
Although European countries are located close to each other and have common practices, it is important to know that their
business cultures have many differences.
Note: Image Credit
Business Etiquette around the World
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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1 Germans do not like sudden changes in business plans, even if
it will improve the outcome.
Business Etiquette around the World
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2Negotiations and team work are highly valued in Denmark.
Business Etiquette around the World
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3 In France, speaking in French is appreciated as it a highly
valued part of their national identity.
Business Etiquette around the World
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4In Spain, people place an emphasis on their social life, rather
than their professional life.
Business Etiquette around the World
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5In the Czech Republic, do not schedule a meeting for Friday
afternoon or during August. Many Czechs leave town for the weekend after lunch on Fridays and many businesses are closed
during August.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Business in Africa
Africa has a strong presence on the map and you may have an African business trip in your future.
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Business Etiquette around the World
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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1When entering a social function, shake hands with the person to your right and then continue around the room going from right to left. Say good-bye to each person individually when leaving.
Business Etiquette around the World
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2In the countries with colonial pasts, European etiquette is
socially acceptable. For example, English manners in Kenya and Nigeria and Dutch manners in various parts of South Africa.
Business Etiquette around the World
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3Soft handshakes are common across Africa. In countries like
Kenya and South Africa, with postcolonial populations, you will see European-style handshakes. In Muslim countries, such as
Morocco, men may hold handshakes so long that they become handholds.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Business in Asia
Unlike Westerners, Asians place importance on the group rather than the individual. In general, they conduct business, make
decisions and socialize as a group. Note: Image Credit
Business Etiquette around the World
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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1Handshakes are a common greeting and are accompanied by a
nod or bow.
Business Etiquette around the World
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2Business cards with both your native language and the language
of the Asian country you are doing business in are recommended. Always include your title on the card.
Business Etiquette around the World
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3Business cards are offered with both hands grasped between
thumb and forefingers.
Business Etiquette around the World
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4This culture respects personal space, so avoid back patting,
putting an arm around someone's shoulders and hugs.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Business in the Middle East
People in the Middle East prefer to do business in person, with someone they trust. Relationships and mutual trust are
necessary for any successful business interaction.
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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1It is important to have a contact in the Middle East who can
make introductions for you.
Business Etiquette around the World
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2Face-to-face meetings are preferred.
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3When entering a meeting, general introductions will begin with a
handshake.
Business Etiquette around the World
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4Greet each of your Middle Eastern counterparts individually.
Business Etiquette around the World
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5The Middle East is known for its lavish generosity.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Business in the United States
American are known for their friendliness and informality. People usually do not wait to be introduced, they will begin speaking with
strangers in a group or when seated next to each other at an event or show. Note: Image Credit
Business Etiquette around the World
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Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
1In business, American greetings are usually informal.
Business Etiquette around the World
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2Stand while being introduced.
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3Firm-grip handshakes are expected.
Business Etiquette around the World
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4Maintain eye contact when shaking someone's hand.
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5Americans are very direct when communicating.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Conclusion There are many factors that must be considered in order to successfully conduct business in a marketplace foreign from your own. Learning the language and translating or localizing your products or services for your target audience is an important step but so is understanding the customs and etiquette of that market. There is no standard of business etiquette around the world. Each market and region must be individually researched to understand the proper way to conduct yourself socially and professionally. Being well-prepared before you travel to a location to conduct business will show your dedication to doing business in the region and will help improve your chances of being successful.
Business Etiquette around the World
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Translation and Localization Resources
You may gain further insights into global e-business, global SEO, website translation and country specific cultural facts and related topics by reviewing some previous blogs written by
GPI:
Website Translation Tips and Best Practices by Country SeriesLanguage Translation Resources
Translation Portal and Localization Tools10 Tips for Website Localization
Global SEO: 4 Top FactorsSocial Media Localization
Doing Business via the WWW in ChinaCreating Culturally Customized Content for Website Translation
Please feel free to contact GPI at [email protected] with any questions about
our language and technology services. Also let us know if you have any interesting blog topics you would like us to cover in our future blogs. You may request a complimentary
Translation Quote for your projects as well.
Business Etiquette around the World
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