Work in groups of three. Student A, read the tips below. Student B, read the tips on p. 208. Student C, read the tips on p. 212. Tell the others in your group about your tips. Reading 18 a These tips on business etiquette in Asia could affect your level of success when dealing with Eastern cultures Greeting and addressing people Even though Covid has reduced physical contact, ways of greeting globally involve touching each other. The popular handshake has received some alternatives such as the footshake or the elbow bump. Nevertheless, shaking hands is a Western custom that is also quite common when doing business in Asia. So, if someone extends his or her hand, shake it immediately – not too firm, not too long and not with excessive pumping. Remember that Muslim women will not shake hands with men. In Japan, nod your head respectfully when shaking, but do not attempt to bow unless you have been properly coached – you will look ridiculous. Never assume that you can address people on a first-name basis until you are invited to. Instead, stick with the more formal title of ‘Mr’ or ‘Ms’. Always be on time for your appointments and meetings to show respect. As the pace of business is different in Asia, always plan lots of time for meetings and plenty of leeway between them. In India, and especially the Philippines, try not to overschedule yourself. Expect delays but do not be the cause of them. Present your business card Use two hands when offering your business card to a customer from Asia, and do the same when receiving theirs. Take a moment or two to examine the card, acknowledge it, then place it on the table in front of you or in a business card holder. Don’t put it in your back pocket and never write on a business card – doing so might offend your client. If you’re conducting a lot of business in a particular country, consider having your card printed in both English and their language. Be suitably suited Avoid an unintentional insult. Dress in a business suit for all meetings and conferences. Be aware of the climate. In India or the Philippines it’s very hot, so make sure to wear lightweight but smart clothes. Ask about appropriate attire for social events. Jeans might not be considered acceptable even if the dress code is casual. Recognise and honour local practices. In many Asian countries, you will be expected to remove your shoes before entering certain buildings, restaurants or rooms. Buy new socks before your trip and always carry an extra pair with you. It won’t do to have stained socks or socks with holes in them. Buy the right gifts Do your research beforehand to determine what kind of gift, if any, is appropriate. Forget about anything made of pigskin in Muslim countries and avoid giving things that come in sets of four in China (as the number four signifies death). In Indonesia, it’s inappropriate to bring a gift to your first meeting, while most Japanese companies appreciate a gift that everyone in the office can enjoy, such as a box of chocolates. Apologise when it’s expected If you think you may have offended someone, apologise. Not doing so will harm your career far more than the apology will hurt your ego. And remember: your sense of humour may not travel well across cultures. Leave your jokes at home so you won’t have to apologise later for causing offence. These tips will help you to develop strong professional bonds in Asia. If you are willing to increase your business travel, you will boost your image and your career enormously. Media task. Work in pairs. Go online and research alternative contactless ways of greeting that have developed due to the Covid pandemic. Compare your findings in class. b 16 Language skills Extras Explore 1 Immigration, diversity and inclusion Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv
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