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

When talking about culture 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 history and culture between Asian countries, each country and the way its people conduct 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 a business or casual setting, ask instead of making an inaccurate assumption and offending your hosts.

Showing that you are interested in learning and abiding by their rules is a 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 bow properly, keep your back straight and your hands down at your sides. Refrain from putting your hands in your pockets or crossing your arms. As is true in American culture, this is a sign of boredom or disinterest.

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

Avoid:

• pointing with fingers or with any object, such as chopsticks or pens.

• It is unusual and can be considered rude.

• point out someone’s mistake Always be respectful of your hosts and business partners.

• being late. In fact, he’s 15 minutes early.

Porcelain

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

Patience and proper follow-up are very important in Chinese business culture. Important decisions are not made quickly and you should 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 that highlights positive points and decisions, but doesn’t go too long with your comments.

Business is frequently conducted during meal times. Learn how to use chopsticks and where to put them when eating. It is better to put them back on the stand instead of placing them in or on the bowl or plate. If a second meal or gathering is requested, offer to host.

Avoid:

• be late Be punctual, early if possible.

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

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

• point 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 bow or nod.

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

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

Avoid:

• shaking hands, especially with women, unless the host offers his hand first.

• Refusing food or drink at a gathering. Accept what they offer you so as not to offend.