International Business Etiquette
from Around the World
Researching local customs before doing
business in a new country
What’s considered proper etiquette or good manners varies greatly from country to country.
When conducting business in the United States, eye contact during conversations, especially with superiors,
signifies respect and confidence. In some countries, however, eye contact is considered rude.
Business meetings are all about business in the U.S. but, in many nations, it’s disrespectful not to inquire
about one’s health and family before talking about professional matters.
Business etiquette: China
Show up on time for business meetings. Punctuality is important to the Chinese and being late is offensive.
Chinese people appreciate a conservative dress code, and you should avoid physical contact while conversing.
Always be prepared for meetings. Conduct research on the company ahead of time and avoid scheduling a meeting
during a Chinese holiday.
Enter the room in hierarchical order. The person of the highest seniority will enter the room first and the rest will
follow in order.
Mandarin is the official language of China, but there are some other languages to be aware of, such as Cantonese and
Shanghainese.
Avoid firm negatives, such as a simple “no.” Try to find an alternative, such as “That’s something I will have to think
about.”
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Business etiquette: Japan
Bowing is a typical way of greeting each other. Handshakes sometimes occur, but you should let the Japanese person
initiate it.
The senior member of the group often leads the business meeting while younger members, out of respect, speak less.
People of similar positions in different groups should sit across from each other; junior employees should never sit
across from senior employees.
Giving gifts is common, but you should pay special attention to how you present your gift. Never hand out a gift that
isn’t wrapped and make sure you give it to the person with both hands.
When handing out business cards, make sure you’re using both hands. Bowing during this exchange is viewed as a
form of respect.
Business etiquette: Italy
Italians do not prioritize punctuality, so be patient and prepare for any delays that may arise. Do not take a
small delay as a sign of disrespect. When a deadline must be firmly met, make it very clear to your Italian
partner.
In Italian business culture, it’s not common to give gifts, especially expensive ones. Only after you’ve
established a trusting relationship with someone may you give a small and not obviously expensive gift as a
sign of friendship.
Italy is a major center of European fashion. Even casual clothes are smart and chic. Formal attire is generally
expected for business meetings. For the most part, men wear dark colors. Women tend to wear elegant and
modest pant suits or skirt suits, accessorized with simple jewelry and makeup.
Business etiquette: India
While you can show up to meetings on time, don’t be surprised if Indian business partners are late.
Like in China, the word “no” can be considered rude in India. Try to use words and phrases like “we will
see” or “possibly” instead of “no.”
If your business partner offers you a meal, it is proper etiquette to accept the invitation. Declining the meal
could jeopardize the possible business connection.
Avoid eating meat at business meetings if everyone else is ordering vegetarian meals. Many people in India
do not eat pork or beef for religious reasons.
When conducting business in India, English is the typical language to use.
Business etiquette: France
It is vital to make appointments for both business and social occasions. It is not acceptable in France to drop in on
someone unannounced.
Punctuality is valued but sometimes treated casually in France, so do not be surprised if your French colleague arrives
late. Staying late at the office is common too, especially for individuals in senior positions.
As you would expect, the nation that created haute couture puts a premium on style. Fashion and appearance are more
important in France than in many other countries in the world. Even low-paid, entry-level executives buy the best
clothes they can afford. Dress tends to be on the formal side for both men and women, whether in business or social
situations.
Giving presents is fine here but use discretion. Business gifts are usually not exchanged at the first meeting.
Business etiquette: Germany
Business events are well-structured and straight to the point. You don’t want to be joking during business
meetings.
Be punctual. Germans are hardworking, so you want to demonstrate that their time is valuable.
A typical greeting involves a firm and brief handshake with everyone as you enter and exit the meeting.
When entering business meetings, allow the oldest person to enter the room first.
Address people by their title and surname to show respect.
Business etiquette: Brazil
Business meetings often last longer than planned but do not leave before the meeting has officially ended.
Leaving early is considered rude.
In Brazil, physical contact during conversation is natural and highlights the trust between business partners.
You should avoid eating with your hands in Brazil. Even if you’re eating a sandwich, you’ll want to use a
napkin or utensil.
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, but some Brazilians also speak Spanish. Some parts of the
country also speak German.
Business etiquette: The United Kingdom
Punctuality and preparation are valuable, so arrive on time. If you’re running late, call or message
someone to inform them.
When conversing with the British, try saying “please,” “thank you” and “sorry” frequently, as this is
considered polite.
A polite greeting typically involves maintaining eye contact and offering a handshake.
Unlike Brazilians, Brits like to have personal space, so don’t stand too close.
Thank You
