Business across Cultures

Before doing business abroad it is important to understand the social and business culture of a country in which you are going to operate. The following are just a few of do's and don'ts for business people visiting a foreign country:

* In the USA, it is polite to look people in the eye, to offer your hand, and to smile;

* In France people shake hands much more than Americans or most Europeans; if you fail to shake hands, you may be considered rude;

* In Japan and Korea bowing, rather than shaking hands, is usual behaviour;

* In Turkey, your coat should be buttoned when you are with superiors;

* Never discuss business over dinner in France;

* Don't pass documents with the left hand in Saudi Arabia;

* Don't expect written contracts in most Moslem countries;

* Don't expect the contract with South Korean businessmen to spell out all the details. Written contracts are typically documents that change as conditions do;

* In Japan it's very important to get everyone's opinion. Patience is a prime factor in their culture. They also avoid saying " no" directly;

* Offer gifts in Japan. The Japanese enjoy giving and receiving beautifully presented gifts;

* Do not bring liquor to an Arab house. For many Arabs, alcohol is forbidden by religious law;

* In China expensive presents are not acceptable and cause great embarrassment. Give a collective gift from your company to theirs;

* In British restaurants a tip is included in the bill. In some Mediterranean countries, such as Greece and Spain, the customer is expected to pay alittle extra for satisfactory service;

* Don't criticize royalty in Great Britain;

* In Arab countries, don't admire an object openly. The owner may feel obligated to give it to you.

Thus, if you are aware of the customs of the country you are visiting, you will not cause offence or be offended.

1 What should a businessman know before starting business abroad? 2 In which country is it not recommended to discuss business over dinner? 3 In what countries will you never make written contracts? 4 Where do they change written contracts as conditions do? 5 What is considered polite in the USA? 6 What behaviour is usual in Japan and Korea? 7 In which country do they avoid saying " no" directly? 8 You shouldn't bring liquor to an Arab house. Why? 9 What gifts are not acceptable in China? 10 Should you not criticize royalty in Great Britain? 11 In which country should you shake lands? 12 Is the custom of giving tips still common in many countries? 13. When do you tip and how much?

1 Match words that have a similar meaning:

2 Match the words and phrases in the box with the correct definition:

1) formal rules for polite behaviour in a society; 2) something done in a society because of tradition; 3) money given to somebody for doing something; 4) rules for behaviour; 5) a person who is higher in rank or importance; 6) an agreement, usually written and signed by those making it; 7) something given freely to another, a present; 8) a king or queen and family; 9) showing bad manners, impolite.

 

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