Business Etiquette When Working With Other Cultures
When doing business with other cultures, you must be mindful and respectful of cultural differences. There are numerous benefits to working with other cultures, including the unique professional perspective that they can provide to you and your company. However, it is important to follow a few rules of etiquette to ensure a productive and comfortable business relationship.
Educate Yourself
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Educate yourself on the basics of the culture. Research common greeting practices and phrases, so you know if you need to bow instead of shake hands, for example. This ensures that you won't inadvertently do anything offensive.
Practice Cultural Sensitivity
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Practice being culturally sensitive. Avoid making jokes that are targeted at one culture and don't make fun of things like accents and style of dress. Not only does this border on harassment in the workplace, but it's downright rude and can cause people to avoid doing business with you and your country.
Keep Notes
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If you do business with numerous people from different cultures, it can be hard to remember the details of each. Keep a cheat sheet -- either in a small notebook or electronically -- on people's names (with proper spelling) and important notes that you want to remember when dealing with them. These small notes, such as what to do and not to do when greeting, meeting or eating, can be helpful to ensure that you don't do anything offensive.
When In Doubt, Ask
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When it doubt about a cultural practice, take the time to ask. The person with which you are doing business will appreciate it more if you simply ask. You may feel uncomfortable asking, and when do you so, try to do it discreetly. Explain that you don't want to misstep and say or do something culturally offensive, so if the person wouldn't mind explaining the proper etiquette for the particular situation, you would appreciate it.
References
Writer Bio
Lynda Moultry Belcher is a writer, editor and public relations professional. She worked for a daily newspaper for 10 years and has been a freelance writer for more than 15 years. She has contributed to Divorce360 and Revolution Health Group, among other publications. She is also the author of "101 Plus-Size Women's Clothing Tips" and writes "Style At Any Size," a bi-weekly newspaper column.