Across Asia, business success depends heavily on contacts liking and trusting you. By showing correct etiquette, you will help them feel at ease. But knowing what’s polite, and what’s a horrible mistake, can be difficult in this vast, culturally diverse region.
Follow these few tips to avoid embarrassment.
Playing cards
The exchange of business cards is serious business. Customs vary between countries, so to avoid offence:
- Always accept a card with both hands – this is universally regarded as good manners.
- Examine it for a few moments and then place it in front of you during the meeting.
- Never hastily stuff it into your back pocket.
- Don’t write on another person's card.
- Remember to hand out your cards to everybody in a meeting.
If you are smoking, it’s considered to be polite in China to pass a cigarette on top of your card (using both hands). You’re expected to smoke it immediately if given one.
Bright isn’t right
Dress standards are conservative. In China or Hong Kong, a formal suit is safe, while women should wear low shoes. Never wear shorts, trendy clothing or high heels to work, and answering mobile phones and e-mailing during meetings is rude.
In the Philippines a suit is thought too formal, so just a long-sleeved shirt and tie is preferable. In Malaysia avoid yellow clothing unless you’re a king or queen – it’s reserved for royalty.
Burp or bow?
Eating plays a crucial role in deals made from Bombay to Shanghai. In India always eat and pass items with your right hand. In Malaysia, like most of the region, dinner is about getting acquainted. In terms of etiquette, follow your host.
In Malaysia and Japan it’s rude to burp at the table, but in China it’s a sign of contentment.
In Indonesia (and other places including China) – don't finish your meal, it implies you're still hungry and your hosts may keep ordering for you.
Another rule for South-East Asia is not to order pork, beef or alcohol unless everyone else does because it might cause offence. Never take Muslim clients to a restaurant that isn't halal, and don't eat in front of them during Ramadan -- they're probably hungry.
Bow when you meet Japanese, and get ready to drink. As with Koreans, drinking alcohol is a big part of business and wins you respect.
Make them wait, or never be late?
Malaysia, India and Thailand for example, still have a relaxed attitude to punctuality, while in Japan, Korea and Hong Kong, lateness is rude. To avoid giving offence, always call ahead and apologise if you are going to be delayed.
However, for lunchtime appointments in Singapore, arrive a few minutes late. Being on time can give some Singaporeans the impression you’re greedy.
For more information on the tricky rules of business travel, visit the HP Learning Centre for etiquette tutorials and other classes to enhance your interpersonal skills. |
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