A cross-cultural overview by © Ursula Gurda
Arabs use their hands in conversation very often and give many signals by hands. The OK sign means in some countries "homosexuality", in Japan "money". Indians shake their heads from right to left and it means "yes."
These fine cultural differences you should know when traveling.
From German point of view, Japan is most difficult to understand. Emotions are not shown and there is a strict etiquette. Respect, courtesy and a calm way of speaking is preferred. The very first meeting, the greeting ritual transfer of the business card (with both hands), can lead to confusion.
Negotiations are always conducted in a team and negative emotions are not shown. The positive expression of the face and the nod of approval does not mean that one agrees with what was said, but only that he understand.
Decisions are not taken in direct discussion. It is the principle of seniority. Now: why do Japanese slurp? "Tsurtsurtsuru," it sounds when Japanese slurp noodles. Through the emerging draft, the noodles are cooled and easier to eat.
Similar behavior will be found in China. The interest of the group is more important than the interest of the individual and feelings are not shown in a negotiation. Politeness has top priority, direct criticism and confrontation are absolutely taboo.
Do not be irritated if somebody will belch during the dinner. Ignore this discreetly and do not miss to go to the restroom if you need to clean your nose.
Don’t look too long into the eyes of your counterpart in China, a sign of confidence in Europe, Humphrey Bogart would have had his problems and also a strong handshake should not be.
In Arab countries, business meetings have a very different quality. Negotiations are often erratic and slow, and the actual negotiations take place only after extensive small talk.
Personal, friendly relationships are the lifeblood of any business. Relationships are more important than meeting deadlines. An Arab proverb says: "You have the clock, we have the time." Emotional outbursts are part of any negotiation, especially when it comes to prices, but also silence are part of the show. "One man - one word" is indeed praiseworthy, but you should insist on written agreements.
Please keep in mind for all private invitations, whether in Japan, China or the Arab world: Do not wear shorts and T-shirts. Casual is the motto: polo shirt or men’s shirt, no jeans, no sandals, in Arab countries prefer a suit and tie.
Arabs use their hands in conversation very often and give many signals by hands. The OK sign means in some countries "homosexuality", in Japan "money". Indians shake their heads from right to left and it means "yes."
These fine cultural differences you should know when traveling.
From German point of view, Japan is most difficult to understand. Emotions are not shown and there is a strict etiquette. Respect, courtesy and a calm way of speaking is preferred. The very first meeting, the greeting ritual transfer of the business card (with both hands), can lead to confusion.
Negotiations are always conducted in a team and negative emotions are not shown. The positive expression of the face and the nod of approval does not mean that one agrees with what was said, but only that he understand.
Decisions are not taken in direct discussion. It is the principle of seniority. Now: why do Japanese slurp? "Tsurtsurtsuru," it sounds when Japanese slurp noodles. Through the emerging draft, the noodles are cooled and easier to eat.
Similar behavior will be found in China. The interest of the group is more important than the interest of the individual and feelings are not shown in a negotiation. Politeness has top priority, direct criticism and confrontation are absolutely taboo.
Do not be irritated if somebody will belch during the dinner. Ignore this discreetly and do not miss to go to the restroom if you need to clean your nose.
Don’t look too long into the eyes of your counterpart in China, a sign of confidence in Europe, Humphrey Bogart would have had his problems and also a strong handshake should not be.
In Arab countries, business meetings have a very different quality. Negotiations are often erratic and slow, and the actual negotiations take place only after extensive small talk.
Personal, friendly relationships are the lifeblood of any business. Relationships are more important than meeting deadlines. An Arab proverb says: "You have the clock, we have the time." Emotional outbursts are part of any negotiation, especially when it comes to prices, but also silence are part of the show. "One man - one word" is indeed praiseworthy, but you should insist on written agreements.
Please keep in mind for all private invitations, whether in Japan, China or the Arab world: Do not wear shorts and T-shirts. Casual is the motto: polo shirt or men’s shirt, no jeans, no sandals, in Arab countries prefer a suit and tie.
Keine Kommentare:
Kommentar veröffentlichen