Asian Culture 101: Tips for Your Next Business Trip to Asia

When it comes to cultures or business etiquette, Asian countries are often grouped together. However, it is not necessarily true that cultures or ethnic groups in the same area of ​​the world share the same traditions or values. While there are some similarities in the history and culture of Asian countries, each country and the way its people do business is unique.

The most important thing to remember is to be respectful to everyone you meet. If you don’t know what to say or do in an informal or business setting, ask instead of making an inaccurate guess and offending your hosts.

Showing that you are interested in learning and upholding their rules is one way of showing respect. However, even if you can’t learn or adapt to all the traditions of these many countries, here are some key things to remember when traveling on business.

Japan

In Japan, it is common to bow when meeting someone new. However, your hosts may be familiar with Western traditions and offer to shake your hand. Be prepared for one or both forms of greeting and follow your host’s lead. To lean correctly, keep your back straight and your hands at your sides. Refrain from putting your hands in your pockets or crossing your arms. As in American culture, this is a sign of boredom or disinterest.

Business cards are more important in Japan than in the United States. When a card is presented to you, accept it with both hands and read the card. This shows respect and care for the card and the person who gave it to you. If you are sitting, leave the card on the table or in your card holder. Do not put the card in your pocket or purse. It’s best to keep your own cards in a nice case so they won’t get bent or dirty when you hand them out.

To avoid:

• point with fingers or any object, such as toothpicks or pens.

• This is unusual and can be considered rude.

• pointing out someone’s mistake. Always be respectful to your hosts and business partners.

• to be late. In fact, arrive 15 minutes early.

porcelain

As you would in the United States, offer a firm handshake when meeting someone on business. As in Japanese culture, business cards are a big problem. Offer and receive cards with both hands. If possible, print your information in Chinese on one side and English on the other.

Patience and proper follow-through are very important in Chinese business culture. Important decisions are not made quickly and you need to prepare for longer meetings and speeches. You may also be asked to speak, but keep your comments brief and avoid “taking over” the conversation. Follow up after a meeting with an email highlighting the good points and decisions, but don’t go too long with your comments.

Business is frequently conducted during meals. Learn how to use chopsticks and where to place them when eating. It is better to put them back in the holder rather than in or on the bowl or plate. If a second meal or gathering is requested, offer yourself as a host.

To avoid:

• to be late. Be on time, early if possible.

• talking too loud or fast. Match your host’s tone.

• interrupt vacations or ignore superstitions. Respect for tradition is important.

• pointing with their figures or other objects.

India

Luckily for Americans, the most common business language in India is English, although Hindi is widely spoken in other areas of the country. Greet your host by saying “Namaste” with your palms together in front of your chest. Offer a slight nod or nod.

Nodding is often a sign of understanding rather than agreement. Be careful not to confuse the two of you when speaking at business meetings.

As in China, be mindful and respectful of the holidays. In the Hindu religion, vacations can last longer than a day or two, so plan your trip accordingly.

To avoid:

• shake hands, especially women, unless the host offers a hand first.

• refusing food or drink in a meeting. Accept what is offered so as not to offend him.