Foreign manners and customs

Europe and the United States have many of the same etiquette, but relatively speaking, Europeans are more conservative than Americans, and therefore pay more attention to etiquette. In the United States, some are considered slightly rude behavior (such as chewing gum, hands in pockets to talk, legs casually stilted on the furniture, patting the back, etc.), the Europeans are considered to be extreme vices. Europeans avoid calling each other by their first names and omit their last names until after a long relationship. Some people with degrees and academic titles expect you to address them with those titles as a sign of respect. In addition to the southern and eastern parts of Europe, shaking hands is the standard form of greeting, but that is only a gentle touch, never like the Americans, shaking hands when the arm up and down, and even drive the shoulders, in all business meetings and most of the private interactions in the exchange of business cards from the etiquette, is very necessary. Also appointments must be on time, especially in the Nordic countries, where smoking at the table is frowned upon, and even if it is to be done, it must wait until wine or coffee is served. The best gift to give is flowers, which are both appropriate and welcome. In terms of dress, many people still wear suits in offices, restaurants and on the street, and women do not wear pants but only skirts in their workplaces and in restaurants where dress is important.

Britain: in the interaction, emotions are rarely expressed, etiquette is extremely important. People meet to address, even among acquaintances, most titles are to be crowned in front of the name. The best thing to do is to listen to how others address you and then follow suit. When talking, don't gossip about the monarchy or talk about religion. You can't start a conversation with "What do you do?" It's considered a personal matter and not suitable for discussion.

France: The French are generally more formal and conservative, and the locals are always critical of what other people say, and it is important to be on time for appointments in France, otherwise it is considered a lack of manners. The French seldom come to the door as a guest, unless under the hospitality of the host, if you go to someone else's home as a guest, to bring some flowers or chocolates and other small gifts for the hostess, to show your appreciation. In France, the usual conversation do not take personal, political or money as the topic, that will cause others to resent.

Italy: Italians generally meet on the road with a handshake or a simple hello, and address university graduates by their common title. Business meetings should be arranged in advance, but not necessarily on time, as punctuality is not considered a virtue among Italians in social activities. Italians are hospitable and if you are invited, you cannot refuse, it is impolite to do so. Lunch is the most substantial meal of the day, usually lasting two or three hours, and it is common in Italy to give each other businesslike gifts. Italians generally talk about soccer, family matters, company matters, and local news, avoiding American soccer and politics.

Germany: Germans meet and greet each other by title, if the other party does not say, do not call their names. And when you answer the phone, tell your last name first. The German dating must be on time. If you have something to do and can't make it, you must use the phone to cancel or postpone the meeting in advance. Meetings are usually arranged as early as possible. If you are invited to a German home, it is a special treat. Don't forget to send a bouquet of flowers to the hostess when you arrive, remove the wrapping from the flowers when you enter, and send them when you exchange greetings with the hostess, but don't send red roses, which represent romance. And German conversation can talk about the German countryside, personal hobbies or sports, but do not talk about baseball, basketball or American soccer.

2, Africa:

Generally speaking, North African countries follow the Arab etiquette, rules and code of conduct, the use of Arab gestures and language and polite habits; Central African countries follow the characteristics of a variety of cultures in Black Africa, and South Africa to a large extent by the Dutch and British influence.

Egypt: In Egypt, the weekly working day is from Saturday to Thursday, and Friday is a day of rest for Muslims. All people must take off their shoes to enter a mosque. If invited to the Egyptian family dinner, it is customary to bring flowers or chocolates as a gift, when giving or receiving gifts, be sure to use both hands or the right hand to pick up, never use only the left hand. To entertain Egyptians, use non-alcoholic beverages. Social events generally start later in Egypt than elsewhere. Dinner parties usually don't start until 10:30 or later.

Libya: Arrange meetings in Libya as far in advance as possible and be on time. However, Libyans are very flexible with their time and they do not adhere very much to the schedule. An invitation to dinner or a reception is the usual form of hospitality. There are strict legal provisions against alcohol. If invited to a Libyan home for a meal, only men may attend and must bring a gift for the man of the house, not for his wife. The conversation avoids politics, religion and other controversial issues.

SOUTH AFRICA: In South Africa, there are strict customs and social stereotypes about race and color, and you would do well to follow the example of your hosts in this regard. It is difficult to avoid talking about local politics in South Africa, especially apartheid policies. You can find that the locals have mixed views on this issue. Most South Africans speak two languages, English and Afrikaans public language (derived from 17th century Dutch).

3. Middle East:

In the Middle East, appropriate dress and decent behavior among the opposite sex is as important as obeying the letter of civil law. Local Islam requires five prayers in a day. Of course, you don't have to kneel like your local host, but you must not interfere with your host while he is doing so, let alone show impatience. When the prayers are over, make a religious gesture to the Arab, which is the best way to show your approval. The word for this is "Inshallah", which means "Allah's will". Remember to respect the local month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar). In Ramadan, one should not do any work in the afternoon. While sitting, one should not point the soles of one's shoes at the local host, as this is an insulting gesture. Outside, people generally greet each other with a handshake. However, when you visit a local home, the host may kiss you on both cheeks to welcome you, and you are expected to reciprocate in the same form. Take plenty of business cards with you when you go out, preferably in English on one side and in the local language on the other. Even if an Arab invites you to his home, you may not see his wife (or wives), although she may be in the kitchen overseeing the preparation of the meal. It is impolite to ask her. If you do see her, be warm and moderate. If she doesn't take the initiative (which she undoubtedly won't), don't shake her hand. People in these countries generally do not drink alcoholic beverages, do not eat pork, and eat with the right hand, following the example of their hosts. Writing utensils make great gifts in these countries. People in the Middle Eastern countries love fountain pens with a golden appearance and smooth writing. When you go to an Arab home for dinner, it is necessary to starve yourself first so that you can eat a lot to show that you enjoyed your host's meal. Your Arab host is very brash and generous. You should not appreciate one of his items too enthusiastically or he will insist on giving that item to you and you may just be forced to accept it so as not to offend. In Arab countries, gift-giving is popular, but not obligatory. Gifts can't be alcohol, or things such as pictures and statues of women, which are against the rules of Islam.

Iran: Visitors to Iran are expected to address their hosts by their last name or academic title or headship, not by their first name. Business meetings in Iran are by appointment, and punctuality is respected. But in social interactions, punctuality is less important.

Iraq: In Iraq, unlike other Arab countries, you will find that alcoholic beverages are served to guests. It is necessary to pre-arrange meetings. However, there is no need to be anxious if your host does not arrive on time, as that is often the case. It is wiser not to talk about religion or Middle Eastern politics.

Saudi Arabia: this country has a particular routine. It is that when walking with an Arab, if he picks up your hand and holds on to it, do not jerk your hand back, because when he does that, it is a sign of friendship.

4, Asia-Pacific:

Asians pay a lot of attention to the issue of politeness. In most countries, especially in Southeast Asian countries, it's not a polite demeanor to start talking business right after you sit down. Although you can't get any revelation or information from their expressions, you can be sure that your Asian friend is paying attention to your expression, demeanor, clothing, and the writing utensils you use, among other things. Whatever happens, don't embarrass the other person; that will neither be forgotten nor forgiven. Meetings in the Asia-Pacific region should be organized in advance, adhere to the plans that have been made, and arrive on time. Of course, there is no need to feel insulted if someone else is late. English is the lingua franca in the Asia-Pacific region. Have your business cards printed in English on one side and in the local script on the other. Businesspeople will find it necessary to use a large number of business cards when visiting each of the countries there.

Australia: Of all the countries in that region, Australia, I'm afraid, is the one where Westerners, especially Americans, feel most comfortable and at home. Australians are frank, more casual in dress than the British, but no less formal and polite. People there enjoy a hearty handshake and are called by their first names. Time is of the essence in Australia. It is necessary to schedule meetings in advance. If you are invited to dinner, bring flowers for the hostess or a bottle of wine.

India: Hindus do not eat beef because the cow is a sacred animal. Muslims do not eat pork, and strict Muslims also do not drink alcohol. Orthodox Sikhs wear large turbans, don't smoke, don't eat beef, and don't cut their hair. When Indians meet and part, men shake hands with each other. If a man is introduced to a woman, he should not shake hands with her, but should put his hands together and bow slightly, a man should try to avoid touching a woman, and even less should not talk to a woman with no companionship in a public **** occasion.

Japan: The general form of greeting for Japanese is to bow rather than shake hands, and to exchange business cards. Japanese people should not be addressed by their first names, only family members and very close friends. To address "Mr. So-and-so", use his last name, which is followed by a "ko" (pronounced "san"). Whether it is a business meeting or a social gathering, it is important to arrive on time. Japanese people seldom entertain guests in their personal homes, and when invited to a Japanese home, hats and gloves are removed in the parlor, and then shoes are taken off. It is customary to bring a box of cakes or candies without bringing flowers for the hostess. If a Japanese person gives you a gift, you should show your appreciation, but wait until he mentions it once or twice more before accepting it. Japanese people like to give gifts. Gifts should be wrapped in light-colored gift paper without bows, and they especially like brandy and frozen steak. If the number of gifts is a multiple of 2, this means it brings good luck. Sets of chain links, pens and pencils are great gifts.

South Korea: Under no circumstances should you talk or laugh loudly in South Korea. Koreans, especially Korean women, often cover their mouths with their hands when laughing. The concept of women's liberation is not yet universally accepted in Korea. When entering and leaving a house, men walk in front of them. When entering a house, women help men take off their coats. Blowing one's nose in front of others is considered bad behavior. When men greet each other, they bow slightly and shake hands with both hands or the right hand; women usually do not shake hands. Koreans put their last name in front of their first name. This is different from the West. It is difficult to distinguish men's names from women's names in North Korea. Arrange meetings well in advance. If you are invited to be a guest in a North Korean home, bring flowers or a small gift. Remember that gifts should be given with both hands and should not be opened in front of the giver.

Thailand: In Thailand, remember not to step on the threshold, which, according to Thai custom, is where the spirits live. Don't just point your feet at anything, whether standing or sitting, don't let your feet stand out or see the soles of your shoes. Don't touch anyone even a child's head, the head is considered the seat of the soul. Thais take a long time to make a decision, so be patient. Thais generally do not shake hands except in more westernized associations. Traditionally and for the most part, Thais greet people by bringing both hands together in front of their chest in a prayerful gesture.

5. Latin America

Typically, Latin Americans are very close to each other when talking. If you want to do business in that region, you need to learn to accept this close proximity in conversation. Throughout Latin America, lunch is the main meal. Tipping depends on the country. In most of Central and South America, people usually shake hands upon arrival and departure. People's business cards are printed in both English and the local language. It is not uncommon to be 30 minutes late for a meeting. The people of Latin America are warm and friendly, and they like to treat people. Gift-giving is traditional, with perfume and designer items for the ladies, and novelty gadgets for the men, or small items that the men carry with them, preferably brand-name. For both men and women, send them items that are artistically or historically significant to your country. When you are invited to a Latin American's home*** for a formal meal, either flowers or wine can be brought as a gift. Generally, toasts are made, but the host makes the first toast. Dress appropriately (jacket and tie), even if the weather is hot.

Argentina: The men hug tightly after a long separation, and the women shake hands with both hands and kiss each other on the cheek. It is necessary to schedule meetings in advance. Do not give gifts of a personal nature, such as ties and shirts. If you are entertained in an Argentine home, arrange for a store to deliver flowers or sweets to the hostess. Argentines are particularly fond of guests who make complimentary remarks about their children, their meals and their homes. Do not discuss controversial issues such as politics and religion. But talk about sports without fear - especially soccer and the beautiful scenery in the local parks.

Brazil: The common language spoken in Brazil is Portuguese. The Brazilian people do not feel any embarrassment in expressing their feelings. They will hug in the street. Men and women alike shake hands when meeting and parting. When women meet, they press their cheeks together and kiss the air. Like most Latin Americans, Brazilians are careless with time and work. Don't get into the swing of things at the beginning of a conversation, unless the host does. Brazilian hospitality involves constantly offering small cups of espresso to guests. If you are hosted in a Brazilian home, it is polite to send flowers and a thank you note the next day, being careful that the flowers are not purple (that is a sign of death).

Mexico: Those going to Mexico should not underestimate the severity of Mexico City's high altitude, smog, and traffic before leaving. A little carelessness with the drinking water can lead to diarrhea, known locally as "Montezuma's Revenge". However, all this is minimized by the friendly, generous and easy-going business atmosphere. Mexicans are happy with visitors' desire to speak as much Spanish as possible. In general, shaking hands when people meet is very popular with Mexicans. The host or hostess does not expect you to send flowers. Nor do they usually write thank you notes, but of course your host will be pleased if you do. If you do send flowers, remember that yellow flowers suggest death.

6, North America:

The United States: from a historical point of view is a young country, but also a high degree of openness and full of modern awareness of the country. Americans are characterized by: outward-looking, frank, sincere, enthusiastic, self-confident, and more efficient. Good at long conversations, talk very healthy, and constantly publish their own opinions, focus on the practical, the pursuit of material practical benefits. Because of the self-confidence and good tactics, and at the same time very much appreciate those who are good at bargaining negotiation opponent. Because of the economic strength of the United States and the way the negotiations, the Americans are interested in package deals, and in the momentum of the aggressive. Americans in the negotiation of a specific division of labor, clear responsibilities, once the conditions are met that can be quickly made, and thus the speed of decision-making. Americans work at a faster pace, the negotiation process is often in a short period of time to do a big business, and sometimes even from the pocket to take out a long time ago to prepare a good agreement for you to sign a deal. Negotiations in the higher expectations, but not enough patience.

Canada: Canadians are a bit more conservative than Americans. Their proper demeanor when meeting and parting is to shake hands. Being on time for appointments is expected in most parts of Canada. Most hospitality is held in restaurants or clubs. If you are entertained in a private home, send flowers for the hostess, not lilies, which remind one of a funeral. Avoid making a sharp distinction between French and Canadians. Canadians are proud of their country and resent excessive comparisons between their country and the United States. Positive comments about the people and their country are most welcome. Canadians are frank and impulsive in their speech. Very punctual, very stingy with time, do not talk about nationalities.