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Friday, November 25, 2011

Facts and Statistics

Location: Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the East Sea and the Yellow Sea

Capital: Seoul

Climate: temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter

Population: 48,598,175 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic Make-up: homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese)

Religions: no affiliation 46%, Christian 26%, Buddhist 26%, Confucianist 1%, other 1%

Government: republic

The Korean Language

The Koreans are one ethnic family speaking one language. They share certain distinct physical characteristics which differentiate them from other Asian people including the Chinese and the Japanese, and have a strong cultural identity as one ethnic family.

The Korean language is spoken by more than 65 million people living on the peninsula and its outlying islands as well as 5.5 million Koreans living in other parts of the world. The fact that all Koreans speak and write the same language has been a crucial factor in their strong national identity. Modern Korea has several different dialects including the standard one used in Seoul and central areas, but they are similar enough that speakers/listeners do not have trouble understanding each other.

Why not learn some useful Korean phrases?

Korean Society & Culture

Korean Family Values

. The family is the most important part of Korean life.
. In Confucian tradition, the father is the head of the family and it is his responsibility to provide food, clothing and shelter, and to approve the marriages of family members.
. The eldest son has special duties: first to his parents, then to his brothers from older to younger, then to his sons, then to his wife, and lastly to his daughters.
. Family welfare is much more important than the needs of the individual.
. Members of the family are tied to each other because the actions of one family member reflect on the rest of the family.
. In many cases the family register can trace a family's history, through male ancestors, for over 500 years.

ConfucianismMap of South Korea

. The teachings of Confucius describe the position of the individual in Korean society.
. It is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship.
. The basic tenets are based upon five different relationships: 1) ruler and subject, 2) husband and wife, 3) parents and children, 4)brothers and sisters and 5) friend and friend
. Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honour, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity.

Korean Ancestors

. Ancestors are based on the male family line.
. Children are raised to believe they can never repay their debt to their parents, hence the popularity of ancestor worship.
. They hold ancestral ceremonies for the previous three generations (parents, grandparents, and great grandparents) several times a year, particularly on Chusok and New Year's Day.
. On Chusok, people cook and set out food to celebrate their ancestors.

The Concept of Kibun

. Kibun is a word with no literal English translation; the closest terms are pride, face, mood, feelings, or state of mind.
. If you hurt someone's kibun you hurt their pride, cause them to lose dignity, and lose face. Korean interpersonal relationships operate on the principle of harmony.
. It is important to maintain a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere at all times, even if it means telling a "white lie".
. Kibun enters into every facet of Korean life.
. It is important to know how to judge the state of someone else's kibun, how to avoid hurting it, and how to keep your own kibun at the same time.
. In business, a manager's kibun is damaged if his subordinates do not show proper respect. A subordinate's kibun is damaged if his manager criticizes him in public.
. Nunchi is the ability to determine another person's kibun by using the eye.
. Since this is a culture where social harmony is crucial, being able to judge another person's state of mind is critical to maintain the person's kibun.
. Nunchi is accomplished by watching body language and listening to the tone of voice as well as what is said. Etiquette & Customs in South Korea

Meeting Etiquette

. Greetings follow strict rules of protocol.
. Many South Koreans shake hands with expatriates after the bow, thereby blending both cultural styles.
. The person of lower status bows to the person of higher status, yet it is the most senior person who initiates the handshake.
. The person who initiates the bow says, "man-na-suh pan-gop-sumnida", which means "pleased to meet you."
. Information about the other person will be given to the person they are being introduced to in advance of the actual meeting.
. Wait to be introduced at a social gathering.
. When you leave a social gathering, say good-bye and bow to each person individually.

Gift Giving EtiquetteEtiquette in Korea

. Gifts express a great deal about a relationship and are always reciprocated.
. It is inconsiderate to give someone an expensive gift if you know that they cannot afford to reciprocate accordingly.
. Bring fruit or good quality chocolates or flowers if invited to a Korean's home.
. Gifts should be wrapped nicely.
. The number 4 is considered unlucky, so gifts should not be given in multiples of 4.
. Giving 7 of an item is considered lucky.
. Wrap gifts in red or yellow paper, since these are royal colours. Alternatively, use yellow or pink paper since they denote happiness.
. Do not wrap gifts in green, white, or black paper.
. Do not sign a card in red ink.
. Use both hands when offering a gift.
. Gifts are not opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a South Korean's house: 

. It is common for guests to meet at a common spot and travel together.
. You may arrive up to 30 minutes late without giving offence.
. Remove your shoes before entering the house.
. The hosts greet each guest individually.
. The host pours drinks for the guests in their presence. The hostess does not pour drinks.
. The hosts usually accompany guests to the gate or to their car because they believe that it is insulting to wish your guests farewell indoors.
. Send a thank you note the following day after being invited to dinner.

Table manners

. Wait to be told where to sit. There is often a strict protocol to be followed.
. The eldest are served first.
. The oldest or most senior person is the one who starts the eating process
. Never point your chopsticks.
. Do not pierce your food with chopsticks.
. Chopsticks should be returned to the table after every few bites and when you drink or stop to speak.
. Do not cross your chopsticks when putting them on the chopstick rest.
. Do not pick up food with your hands. Fruit should be speared with a toothpick.
. Bones and shells should be put on the table or an extra plate.
. Try a little bit of everything. It is acceptable to ask what something is.
. Refuse the first offer of second helpings.
. Finish everything on your plate.
. Indicate you are finished eating by placing your chopsticks on the chopstick rest or on the table. Never place them parallel across your rice bowl.

Business Etiquette and Protocol

Relationships & Communication

. South Koreans prefer to do business with people with whom they have a personal connection.
. It is therefore crucial to be introduced by a third-party.
. Relationships are developed through informal social gatherings that often involve a considerable amount of drinking and eating.
. Individuals who have established mutual trust and respect will work hard to make each other successful.
. South Koreans treat legal documents as memorandums of understanding.
. They view contracts as loosely structured consensus statements that broadly define agreement and leave room for flexibility and adjustment as needed.
. Under no circumstances insult or to criticize in front of others.
. Sensitive matters may often be raised indirectly through the intermediary that first made the introductions.
. South Koreans are extremely direct communicators. They are not averse to asking questions if they do not understand what has been said or need additional clarification.
. This is a culture where "less is more" when communicating. Respond to questions directly and concisely.
. Since there is a tendency to say "yes" to questions so that you do not lose face, the way you phrase a question is crucial. It is better to ask, "When can we expect shipment?" than "Can we expect shipment in 3 weeks?", since this question requires a direct response.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. Appointments are required and should be made 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
. You should arrive on time for meetings as this demonstrates respect for the person you are meeting.
. The most senior South Korean generally enters the room first.
. It is a good idea to send both an agenda and back-up material including information about your company and client testimonials prior to the meeting.
. The main purpose of the first meeting is to get to know each other.
. Meetings are used to understand a client's needs and challenges. They lay the foundation for building the relationship.
. Do not remove your jacket unless the most senior South Korean does so.
. Have all written materials available in both English and Korean.

Dress Etiquette

. Business attire is conservative.
. Men should wear dark- coloured, conservative business suits with white shirts.
. Women should dress conservatively and wear subdued colours.
. Men should avoid wearing jewellery other than a watch or a wedding ring.

Business Cards

. Business cards are exchanged after the initial introductions in a highly ritualized manner.
. The way you treat someone's business card is indicative of the way you will treat the person.
. Have one side of your business card translated into Korean.
. Using both hands, present your business card with the Korean side facing up so that it is readable by the recipient.
. Examine any business card you receive carefully.
. Put the business cards in a business card case or a portfolio.
. Never write on someone's business card in their presence.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Facts and Statistics

Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, alongside China, Laos, and Cambodia

Capital: Hanoi

Climate: tropical in south; monsoonal in north with hot, rainy season (mid-May to mid-September) and warm, dry season (mid-October to mid-March)

Population: 82,689,518 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic Make-up: Vietnamese 85%-90%, Chinese, Hmong, Thai, Khmer, Cham, various mountain groups

Religions: Buddhist, Hoa Hao, Cao Dai, Christian (predominantly Roman Catholic, some Protestant), indigenous beliefs and Muslim

The Language

Vietnamese, Vietnam's official language, is a tonal language that can be compared to Cambodia's official language, Khmer. With each syllable, there are six different tones that can be used, which change the definition and it often makes it difficult for foreigners to pick up the language.

There are other languages spoken as well such as Chinese, Khmer, Cham and other languages spoken by tribes inhabiting the mountainous regions. Although there are some similarities to Southeast Asian languages, such as Chinese, Vietnamese is thought to be a separate language group, although a member of the Austro-Asiatic language family.

In written form, Vietnamese uses the Roman alphabet and accent marks to show tones. This system of writing called quoc ngu, was created by Catholic missionaries in the 17th century to translate the scriptures. Eventually this system, particularly after World War I, replaced one using Chinese characters (chu nom), which had been the unofficial written form used for centuries.

Need a Vietnamese Translation?

Vietnamese Culture & Society

ConfucianismMap of Vietnam

o The teachings of Confucius influence the Vietnamese describe the position of the individual in Vietnamese society.
o Confucianism is a system of behaviours and ethics that stress the obligations of people towards one another based upon their relationship.
o The basic tenets are based upon five different relationships:
. Ruler and subject
. Husband and wife
. Parents and children
. Brothers and sisters
. Friend and friend
o Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honour, filial piety, respect for age and seniority, and sincerity.

The Family

o Vietnamese life revolves around the family.
o The Vietnamese family consists of the nuclear as well as the extended family.
o It is not uncommon for three generations to be living together under one roof.
o In Confucian tradition, the father is the head of the family and it is his responsibility to provide food, clothing and shelter and make important decisions.
o Within the same tradition it is believed that after someone dies their spirit lives on. Descendents will "worship" their ancestors to ensure their good favour. On the anniversary of a person's death, ceremonies are held in their memory. They are also remembered during certain lunar festivals and souls are consulted prior to important decisions or occasions such as a birth or a wedding.

Face

o As with many other Asian nations, the concept of face is extremely important to the Vietnamese.
o Face is a tricky concept to explain but can be roughly described a quality that reflects a person's reputation, dignity, and prestige.
o It is possible to lose face, save face or give face to another person.

o Companies as well as individuals can have face or lose face.

o For foreigners it is important to be aware that you may unintentionally cause a loss of face so it is important to be aware of your words and actions. Understanding how face is lost, saved or given is critical.
o Someone can be given face by complimenting them for their hospitality or business acumen. Accusing someone of poor performance or reprimanding them publicly will lead to a loss of face.

Collectivism

o In general, the Vietnamese are a collectivists.
o The individual is seen as secondary to the group - whether the family, school or company.
o As a result there are strict guidelines for social interaction that are designed to protect a group's face

Hierarchy

o As with most group-orientated societies there are also hierarchical structures.
o In Vietnam these are very much based upon age and status.
o This derives from Confucianism, which emphasizes social order. Everyone is seen as having a distinct place and role within the hierarchical structure, be it the family or workplace.
o An obvious example is seen in social situations where the oldest person in a group is greeted or served first.
o Within the family the head would be responsible for making decisions and approving marriages. Etiquette and Customs in Vietnam
Vietnamese society has a fair amount of public etiquette. The following are some of the more common points:
. Avoid public displays of affection with a member of the opposite sex.
. Do not touch someone's head.
. Pass items with both hands.
. Do not point with your finger - use your hand.
. Do not stand with your hands on your hips.
. Do not cross your arms on your chest.
. Do not pass anything over someone's head.
. Do not touch anyone on the shoulder.
. Do not touch a member of the opposite sex.
. Shorts should only be worn at the beach.

Dining Etiquette

If invited to a Vietnamese home:
. Bring fruit, sweets, flowers, fruit, or incense.
. Gifts should be wrapped in colourful paper.
. Do not give handkerchiefs, anything black, yellow flowers or chrysanthemums.

Table Manners

. Wait to be shown where to sit.
. The oldest person should sit first.
. Pass dishes with both hands.
. The most common utensils are chopsticks and a flat spoon.
. Chopsticks should be placed on the table or a chopstick rest after every few mouthfuls or when breaking to drink or speak.
. People hold bowls close to their faces.
. Hold the spoon in your left hand while eating soup.
. Meals are typically served family-style.
. Try to finish everything on your plate.
. When you are finished eating, rest your chopsticks on top of your rice bowl.
. Cover your mouth when using a toothpick.

Business Etiquette and Protocol

Etiquette in Vietnam

o Appointments are required and should be made several weeks in advance.
o The best means of doing so is through a local representative who can act as a reference and also translator/interpreter.
o The Vietnamese are punctual and expect others to be so to.
o Dress conservatively.
o Handshakes are used upon meeting and departing. Handshakes only usually take place between members of the same sex.
o Some Vietnamese use a two-handed shake, with the left hand on top of the right wrist.
o Always wait for a woman to extend her hand. If she does not, bow your head slightly.
o Business cards are exchanged on initial meetings and should be presented with both hands. When receiving business cards ensure you show proper respect to it and do not simply glance at it and put it on the table.
o Hierarchy and face manifest in different ways within business meetings. For example, the most senior person should always enter the room first.
o Silence is also common in meetings where someone disagrees with another but remains quiet so as to not cause a loss of face.
o Relationships are critical to successful business partnerships. Always invest time in building a good relationship based on both personal and business lines. Any initial meeting should be solely used as a "getting to know you" meeting.
o The spoken word is very important. Never make promises that you can not keep to as this will lead to a loss of face.
o Negotiations can be slow so it is important to bear in mind that decisions have to go through a lot of red tape and also group consultation. Be patient.
o Business gift giving is fairly common at the end of a meeting or during a meal in honour of your business associates. Gifts should be small but not expensive. Something with your company logo or something typical from your country both make excellent gifts.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Facts and Statistics

Location: Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean

Capital: Canberra

Climate: generally arid to semiarid; temperate in south and east; tropical in north

Population: 19,913,144 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic Make-up: Caucasian 92%, Asian 7%, aboriginal and other 1%

Religions: ;Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%, non-Christian 11%, other 12.6%

Government: democratic, federal-state system recognizing the British monarch as sovereign

Languages in Australia

English is the primary language used in Australia. Yet their colourful vocabulary, accent, phonetics system and slang ('Strine') can take a lot of getting used to. In 1788, there were about 250 separate Aboriginal languages spoken in Australia, plus dialects. Today, only two thirds of these languages survive and only 20 of them (eight per cent of the original 250) are still strong enough to have chance of surviving well into the next century. In addition to these there are also the languages of immigrants from Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Australian Society & Culture

Aussie Modestymap of australia

. Australians are very down to earth and always mindful of not giving the impression that they think they are better than anyone else.
. They value authenticity, sincerity, and loathe pretentiousness.
. Australians prefer people who are modest, humble, self- deprecating and with a sense of humour.
. They do not draw attention to their academic or other achievements and tend to distrust people who do.
. They often downplay their own success, which may make them appear not to be achievement-oriented.

Mates

. Australians place a high value on relationships.
. With a relatively small population, it is important to get along with everyone, since you never know when your paths may cross again.
. This leads to a win-win negotiating style, since having everyone come away with positive feelings helps facilitate future business dealings.

A Multi-Cultural Society

. The initial population of Australia was made up of Aborigines and people of British and Irish descent.
. After World War II there was heavy migration from Europe, especially from Greece, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Yugoslavia, Lebanon, and Turkey.
. This was in response to the Australian policy of proactively trying to attract immigrants to boost the population and work force.
. In the last thirty years, Australia has liberalised its immigration policy and opened its borders to South East Asia.
. This has caused a real shift in self-perception as Aussies begin to re-define themselves as a multi-cultural and multi-faith society rather then the old homogenous, white, Anglo- Saxon, Protestant nation.

Australian Etiquette & Customs

Meeting Etiquette

. Australians are not very formal so greetings are casual and relaxed.
. A handshake and smile suffices.
. While an Australian may say, 'G'day' or 'G'day, mate', this may sound patronizing from a foreigner. Visitors should simply say, 'Hello' or 'Hello, how are you?'
. Aussies prefer to use first names, even at the initial meeting

Gift Giving Etiquette

. Small gifts are commonly exchanged with family members, close friends, and neighbours on birthdays and Christmas.
. Trades people such as sanitation workers may be given a small amount of cash, or more likely, a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer!
. If invited to someone's home for dinner, it is polite to bring a box of chocolates or flowers to the hostess. A good quality bottle of wine is always appreciated.
. Gifts are opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

. Many invitations to an Aussies home will be for a 'barbie' (BBQ).
. Guests to a barbeque typically bring wine or beer for their personal consumption. In some cases, very informal barbecues may suggest that you bring your own meat!
. Arrive on time if invited to dinner; no more than 15 minutes late if invited to a barbeque or a large party.
. Contact the hostess ahead of time to see if she would like you to bring a dish.
. Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.

Watch your table manners!

. Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
. Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.
. Keep your elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating. 

Business Etiquette and Customs in Australia

Relationships & Communicationbusiness etiquette australia

. Australians are very matter of fact when it comes to business so do not need long- standing personal relationships before they do business with people.
. Australians are very direct in the way they communicate.
. There is often an element of humour, often self-deprecating, in their speech.
. Aussies often use colourful language that would be unthinkable in other countries.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. Appointments are necessary and relatively easy to schedule.
. They should be made with as much lead time as possible.
. Punctuality is important in business situations. It is better to arrive a few minutes early than to keep someone waiting.
. Meetings are generally relaxed; however, they are serious events.
. If an Australian takes exception to something that you say, they will tell you so.
. If you make a presentation, avoid hype, making exaggerated claims, or bells and whistles.
. Present your business case with facts and figures. Emotions and feelings are not important in the Australian business climate.

Negotiating and Decision Making

. Australians get down to business quickly with a minimum amount of small talk.
. They are quite direct and expect the same in return. They appreciate brevity and are not impressed by too much detail.
. Negotiations proceed quickly. Bargaining is not customary. They will expect your initial proposal to have only a small margin for negotiation.
. They do not like high-pressure techniques.
. Decision-making is concentrated at the top of the company, although decisions are made after consultation with subordinates, which can make decision making slow and protracted.

What to wear?

. Business dress is conservative in Melbourne and Sydney.
. Men should wear a dark coloured, conservative business suit.
. Women should wear a smart dress or a business suit.
. In Brisbane or other tropical areas, depending on the job function and company culture, men may wear shirts, ties and Bermuda shorts.

Business Cards

. Business cards are exchanged at the initial introduction without formal ritual.
. If you are not given a business card, it is not an insult; the person simply may not have one.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Facts and Statistics

Indian Flag

Location: Southern Asia, bordering Bangladesh 4,053 km, Bhutan 605 km, Burma 1,463 km, China 3,380 km, Nepal 1,690 km, Pakistan 2,912 km

Capital: New Delhi

Climate: varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north

Population: 1,065,070,607 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic Make-up: Indo-Aryan 72%, Dravidian 25%, Mongoloid and other 3% (2000)

Religions: Hindu 81.3%, Muslim 12%, Christian 2.3%, Sikh 1.9%, other groups including Buddhist, Jain, Parsi 2.5% (2000)

Government: federal republic

Languages in India

The different states of India have different official languages, some of them not recognized by the central government. Some states have more then one official language. Bihar in east India has three official languages - Hindi, Urdu and Bengali - which are all recognized by the central government. But Sikkim, also in east India, has four official languages of which only Nepali is recognized by the central government. Besides the languages officially recognized by central or state governments, there are other languages which don't have this recognition and their speakers are running political struggles to get this recognition. Central government decided that Hindi was to be the official language of India and therefore it also has the status of official language in the states.

Why not learn some useful Hindi phrases?

Indian Society & Culture

HierarchyMap of India

. The influences of Hinduism and the tradition of the caste system have created a culture that emphasizes established hierarchical relationships.
. Indians are always conscious of social order and their status relative to other people, be they family, friends, or strangers.
. All relationships involve hierarchies. In schools, teachers are called gurus and are viewed as the source of all knowledge. The patriarch, usually the father, is considered the leader of the family. The boss is seen as the source of ultimate responsibility in business. Every relationship has a clear- cut hierarchy that must be observed for the social order to be maintained. 

The Role of the Family

. People typically define themselves by the groups to which they belong rather than by their status as individuals. Someone is deemed to be affiliated to a specific state, region, city, family, career path, religion, etc.
. This group orientation stems from the close personal ties Indians maintain with their family, including the extended family.
. The extended family creates a myriad of interrelationships, rules, and structures. Along with these mutual obligations comes a deep-rooted trust among relatives.

Just Can't Say No

. Indians do not like to express 'no,' be it verbally or non- verbally.
. Rather than disappoint you, for example, by saying something isn't available, Indians will offer you the response that they think you want to hear.
. This behaviour should not be considered dishonest. An Indian would be considered terribly rude if he did not attempt to give a person what had been asked.
. Since they do not like to give negative answers, Indians may give an affirmative answer but be deliberately vague about any specific details. This will require you to look for non-verbal cues, such as a reluctance to commit to an actual time for a meeting or an enthusiastic response. Etiquette and Customs in India

Meeting Etiquette

. Religion, education and social class all influence greetings in India.
. This is a hierarchical culture, so greet the eldest or most senior person first.
. When leaving a group, each person must be bid farewell individually.
. Shaking hands is common, especially in the large cities among the more educated who are accustomed to dealing with westerners.
. Men may shake hands with other men and women may shake hands with other women; however there are seldom handshakes between men and women because of religious beliefs. If you are uncertain, wait for them to extend their hand.

Naming Conventions

Indian names vary based upon religion, social class, and region of the country. The following are some basic guidelines to understanding the naming conventions:

Hindus:

. In the north, many people have both a given name and a surname.
. In the south, surnames are less common and a person generally uses the initial of their father's name in front of their own name.
. The man's formal name is their name "s/o" (son of) and the father's name. Women use "d/o" to refer to themselves as the daughter of their father.
. At marriage, women drop their father's name and use their first name with their husband's first name as a sort of surname.

Muslims:

. Many Muslims do not have surnames. Instead, men add the father's name to their own name with the connector 'bin'. So, Abdullah bin Ahmed is Abdullah the son of Ahmad.
. Women use the connector 'binti'.
. The title Hajji (m) or Hajjah (f) before the name indicates the person has made their pilgrimage to Mecca.

Sikhs:

. Sikhs all use the name Singh. It is either adopted as a surname or as a connector name to the surname.

Gift Giving Etiquette

. Indians believe that giving gifts eases the transition into the next life.
. Gifts of cash are given to friends and members of the extended family to celebrate life events such as birth, death and marriage.
. It is not the value of the gift, but the sincerity with which it is given, that is important to the recipient.
. If invited to an Indian's home for a meal, it is not necessary to bring a gift, although one will not be turned down.
. Do not give frangipani or white flowers as they are used at funerals.
. Yellow, green and red are lucky colours, so try to use them to wrap gifts.
. A gift from a man should be said to come from both he and his wife/mother/sister or some other female relative.
. Hindus should not be given gifts made of leather.
. Muslims should not be given gifts made of pigskin or alcoholic products.
. Gifts are not opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

. Indians entertain in their homes, restaurants, private clubs, or other public venues, depending upon the occasion and circumstances.
. Although Indians are not always punctual themselves, they expect foreigners to arrive close to the appointed time.
. Take off your shoes before entering the house.
. Dress modestly and conservatively.
. Politely turn down the first offer of tea, coffee, or snacks. You will be asked again and again. Saying no to the first invitation is part of the protocol.

There are diverse dietary restrictions in India, and these may affect the foods that are served:

. Hindus do not eat beef and many are vegetarians.
. Muslims do not eat pork or drink alcohol.
. Sikhs do not eat beef.
. Lamb, chicken, and fish are the most commonly served main courses for non-vegetarian meals as they avoid the meat restrictions of the religious groups.

Table manners are somewhat formal, but this formality is tempered by the religious beliefs of the various groups.

. Much Indian food is eaten with the fingers.
. Wait to be told where to sit.
. If utensils are used, they are generally a tablespoon and a fork.
. Guests are often served in a particular order: the guest of honour is served first, followed by the men, and the children are served last. Women typically serve the men and eat later.
. You may be asked to wash your hands before and after sitting down to a meal.
. Always use your right hand to eat, whether you are using utensils or your fingers.
. In some situations food may be put on your plate for you, while in other situations you may be allowed to serve yourself from a communal bowl.
. Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates that you are satisfied. Finishing all your food means that you are still hungry.

Business Etiquette and Protocol in India

Relationships & CommunicationCustoms and Etiquette in India

. Indians prefer to do business with those they know.
. Relationships are built upon mutual trust and respect.
. In general, Indians prefer to have long-standing personal relationships prior to doing business.
. It may be a good idea to go through a third party introduction. This gives you immediate credibility.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. If you will be travelling to India from abroad, it is advisable to make appointments by letter, at least one month and preferably two months in advance.
. It is a good idea to confirm your appointment as they do get cancelled at short notice.
. The best time for a meeting is late morning or early afternoon. Reconfirm your meeting the week before and call again that morning, since it is common for meetings to be cancelled at the last minute.
. Keep your schedule flexible so that it can be adjusted for last minute rescheduling of meetings.
. You should arrive at meetings on time since Indians are impressed with punctuality.
. Meetings will start with a great deal of getting-to- know-you talk. In fact, it is quite possible that no business will be discussed at the first meeting.
. Always send a detailed agenda in advance. Send back-up materials and charts and other data as well. This allows everyone to review and become comfortable with the material prior to the meeting.
. Follow up a meeting with an overview of what was discussed and the next steps.

Business Negotiating

. Indians are non-confrontational. It is rare for them to overtly disagree, although this is beginning to change in the managerial ranks.
. Decisions are reached by the person with the most authority.
. Decision making is a slow process.
. If you lose your temper you lose face and prove you are unworthy of respect and trust.
. Delays are to be expected, especially when dealing with the government.
. Most Indians expect concessions in both price and terms. It is acceptable to expect concessions in return for those you grant.
. Never appear overly legalistic during negotiations. In general, Indians do not trust the legal system and someone's word is sufficient to reach an agreement.
. Do not disagree publicly with members of your negotiating team.
. Successful negotiations are often celebrated by a meal.

Dress Etiquette

. Business attire is conservative.
. Men should wear dark coloured conservative business suits.
. Women should dress conservatively in suits or dresses.
. The weather often determines clothing. In the hotter parts of the country, dress is less formal, although dressing as suggested above for the first meeting will indicate respect.

Titles

. Indians revere titles such as Professor, Doctor and Engineer.
. Status is determined by age, university degree, caste and profession.
. If someone does not have a professional title, use the honorific title "Sir" or "Madam".
. Titles are used with the person's name or the surname, depending upon the person's name. (See Social Etiquette for more information on Indian naming conventions.)
. Wait to be invited before using someone's first name without the title.

Business Cards

. Business cards are exchanged after the initial handshake and greeting.
. If you have a university degree or any honour, put it on your business card.
. Use the right hand to give and receive business cards.
. Business cards need not be translated into Hindi.
. Always present your business card so the recipient may read the card as it is handed to them.

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