International Business Etiquette – How Important Is It For Your Special Events?

Saying the wrong word, making the wrong gesture or acting in a certain way, may not only ruin a business deal in some countries, but could also involve you in religious or legal proceedings.

In England for example, it is very common to do business over a pint in a local pub. Try that in the Middle East, Brunei or some other country and you are likely to be arrested.

In some Muslim countries, just being alone in the same room as a woman (especially a married one) may give rise to serious legal and religious discipline.

Pointing with your finger, crossing your legs and showing the soles of your feet, walking into a room without taking your shoes off and punching one hand into another may all get you into a position of disrespect with your host.

The Spanish tend to dress casually (but not shorts) when doing business, but the Japanese always dress to impress for business in full business attire.

In England, one is expected to be very punctual however in Japan you are expected to be fashionably late.

Tipping in New Zealand is rare, but in America tipping is expected and if you do not tip, you simply won’t get served the next time you ask for something.

So why is International Business Etiquette so important?

Most business revolves around relationships. People do business with people they like, trust and respect.

There can be no greater way to respect your foreign guests than to know and understand their culture and observe it when in their company.

They will look upon you with great respect, if they know they you took the time to research their customs and practice them when you are with them.

This alone could be the difference between you or your competitor getting a project.

Respecting other cultures is essential when doing cross-country business, even in meetings in your own country.

If a Muslin business man comes to your city and you take him for a beer and a pork lunch, you will almost certainly offend him and lose the deal.

Taking time to learn International Business Etiquette and cultures is an essential part of doing business these days and it is well recommended that you take the time to learn the essential steps to keeping respect and starting and keeping business.

International Business Etiquette

International Business Etiquette that you will surely want to take a look at if you are involved in business on an international scale at all.

Do not loose out in business or make mistakes with special events because of poor International Business Etiquette.