How Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

If you interact with international clients, you'll quickly realize that business etiquette is different from one culture to another. While most of us might stumble over or brush past cultural differences when we talk with foreigners, business executives have learned that a negotiation's success can depend on how well they recognize and adapt to local customs.

But what is acceptable and where? Here are a few interesting ways that business etiquette differs around the globe.

Time management: Should you be early or late?

Good timekeeping is a core element in business etiquette but in global culture, people appreciate time differently. In Germany, China, and Australia, punctuality is valued highly, and if you're late for your appointment, you might be considered rude or arrogant. When dealing with clients from these countries, sticking to set deadlines can guarantee a good relationship.

But time is actually not that big a deal everywhere. If you travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Spain, Russia, or even France, punctuality isn't that important. When you realize that you're the only one that arrived early for a meeting, don't feel offended. Instead, be patient.

Body language: How should you behave?

You've probably heard that body language speaks volumes more than words and across different cultures, but there are some major changes to what is considered appropriate. Just as people from different countries have their own unique languages, their use of body language can be diverse as well.

In Spain, Greece, or Arab countries, strong eye contact is common practice, but in Japan or Finland, this would be considered intrusive. Another aspect is the use of gestures, especially during presentations. In Italy and the United States, arm gestures are expected.

But in Japan, this might be interpreted as over-dramatization or insincerity. When you travel abroad, double-check what body language is appropriate.

Communication: Business or small talk?

Conversational starters are valuable in business etiquette as they help to break the ice before people get down to business. Most cultures have topics that are okay to talk about in the boardroom but this also depends on the cultures involved. In Spain and Ecuador, people want to know you before doing business and in the United Kingdom (UK), light humor at work is okay. However, in France, formality is a priority and many avoid talking about personal matters in the office. So, wherever you go, be aware of the norms and adapt to what locals are doing.

Giving or Receiving Gifts: Accept or reject?

Everyone loves being given a gift. But in business settings, handouts can be a controversial topic. In some cultures, gifts are frowned upon and even considered bribes. In others, they're appreciated and even encouraged.

Before a business meeting between partners in Japan, Indonesia, or the Philippines, the gracious presentation of gifts is part of etiquette and local tradition. On the flip side, if you accept a gift with your left hand in the Middle East or Asia, you will offend the one giving it to you.

Interestingly, if you go to Singapore, don't be too eager to receive a gift. There, it's customary to reject a gift two or even three times before finally taking it.

Dress Code: Formal or relaxed?

How you dress says a lot about you, and in the business world, it determines how well you're received and perceived. In the United Kingdom, France, or New Zealand, offices are governed by conservative dress codes. Here, suits are generally considered appropriate.

In the United Arab Emirates, foreigners are expected to show modesty in their clothing, but no one requires you to wear their traditional clothes. Over in Saudi Arabia, formal dressing is considered a form of respect and, for women, wearing the traditional abaya is a requirement.

What do you normally wear for work? Do you fit in with any of these cultures?

Crucial Takeaways

If you're travelling for business to a faraway country, be culturally smart by conducting some research beforehand. There's tons of information on the cultural practices of each nation. Knowing some of it can make sure you blend in well. If you're travelling to France know that any conversation should start with the greeting, "Bonjour Madame/Monsieur." Americans that have travelled to Japan know that people greet each other by bowing instead of with handshakes.

Before you fumble your first meeting with an investor, make it a point to learn about their culture. And to be even more culturally aware, observe what locals are doing by searching for clues on what's considered appropriate business etiquette.