Greeting Calling Business cards Communication style Agenda

Business Ethics of different countries
Sodikova Shakhrizoda
Greeting
Calling
Business cards
Communication style
Agenda
France
Germany
Handshake with everyone
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Monsieur/Madame)
Yes.- these should be given to the receptionist on the arriving at a meeting
The French appreciate when you try to speak their language. If you don’t know French, try to learn few greetings. In communication, stick to formality
Yes
Firm handshake with everyone
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Herr/Frau)
Yes.
Have a very direct communication style. If small talk arise, stick to impersonal topics, such as sport. ‘Cos they may don’t like talking about personal life
Yes- meetings are often straight to the point and there is a little small talk
Italy
Spain
Handshake with everyone. Kissing on cheek may occur once a relationship has formed
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Signor/Signora)
Yes.
It is important to establish reciprocal trust before getting down to business. Written communication is preferable for initial contact.
Yes- but meetings don’t always require specific outcomes
Handshake with everyone
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Senor/Senora)
Yes.
Face to face communication is preferred in Spain, initial meetings tend to focus on relationship building. Interruption isn’t considered as rude
Yes- but this is a just general guide and doesn’t often get followed
UK
Russia
Handshake with everyone
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name.
Yes.
Email and phone communication is common in UK. Small talk is common before business, but avoid too personal topics. Punctuality is important
Yes
Firm handshake with everyone with eye contact
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Mister/Missis)
Yes. – including a Russian translation displays your eagerness to work with them
Communication is incredibly direct. Be natural. Gift giving is a common, but rejecting it a few times before accepting is also common
Yes- Russians may be late to meeting, but you should be on time
China
Japan
Handshake with everyone- starting with the most senior and the oldest person first
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name.
Yes.- given and received with two hands, and kept in immaculate condition
You should study the business card when its given, and repeat their name and comment on their position to show interest. Ranking hierarchy is important.
Yes
Bowing is the most common
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name
Yes.- given and received with two hands, and kept in immaculate condition
The most senior person tends to lead business conversation. The most senior members of your party should lead too. You should sit according to your position
Yes- meetings are often straight to the point.
India
UAE
Handshake with everyone (traditional Indian women may not shake hands with men)
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name.
Yes.- including a Hindi translation and given with your right hand
All documents should be passed with your right hand. Asking about personal life is common here, even they may ask about your salary. The word NO is impolite, say MAYBE instead
Yes- Indians may be late to meeting, but you should be on time
Handshake with right hand only. As left hand is for maintaining bodily hygiene.
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name (Sayed/ Sayeda)
Yes.- with Arabic translation and given with your right hand
All documents should be passed with your right hand. During dinner, eating with left hand is considered rude. Phone calls and messages can be answered during meeting
Yes- this is a just general guide and doesn’t often get followed
USA
Canada
Firm handshake with everyone
First name is usually acceptable
Yes.
Business communication is similar to in the UK, and can start with friendly and relaxed talk. During discussion expect the talk to be quite direct at times- particularly in New York
Yes.
Firm handshake with everyone
Title and surname until invited to call them by their first name
Yes.- with French translations
Punctuality is essential. Be on time or early if possible. Make eye contact, if you don’t it may be considered as insecure and insincere
Yes.