The ability to conduct or behave in a business meeting in a respectful and efficient manner

can naturally improve your ability to land important business deals, or even to find a new
company to work for if you are seeking a different direction for your career. With business
borders expanding, following a country's business etiquette at international meetings is not
only good manners – it's good business.

Write each country name above the paragraph that describes its business
meeting etiquette

India – USA – Brazil – France – United Kingdom – China – Germany – Japan - Italy

………………………………….

 Provide a gift for the person you are conducting business with, but keep the
following in mind: When handing them the gift, always use both hands.
Don't give a watch as a gift, as it represents death in this country. Avoid
black, blue or white wrapping paper. These people will decline the gift three
times, but you need to insist they take it. When you receive a gift, you
should do the same.
 These people appreciate a conservative dress code, and you should avoid
physical contact while conversing.
 After a business meeting, allowing them to leave the meeting room first is a
sign of respect.

………………………………

 Bowing is a typical way of greeting each other. Handshakes sometimes

occur, but you should let these people 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.
 This country is especially sensitive to the word "no." It is customary to

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 respond with "yes" even if you disagree with what is being said. 

…………………………………..

 While you can show up to meetings on time, don't be surprised if your

business partners in this country are late.
 Like in the previous country, the word "no" can be considered rude. Try to
use words and phrases like "we will see" or "possibly" instead of "no."
 If your business partner offers you a meal, never say "thank you" at the end
of it, as this is considered a form of payment on your part and therefore
insulting.
 Avoid eating beef at business meetings, as cows are considered sacred.

……………………………

 It is vital to make appointments for both business and social occasions. It is

not acceptable to drop in on someone unannounced.
 Punctuality is treated quite casually in this country, so do not be surprised if
your colleague arrives fairly late. However, staying late at the office is
common, 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 much more important in this country
than in most 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 acceptable here, but exercise discretion. Business gifts
are usually not exchanged at the first meeting.

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 …………………………………

 Punctuality is not a priority for them. Be patient and prepared for some
delay in meetings when you start working with a new partner from that
country. Do not take a small delay as a sign of disrespect. When a deadline
must be firmly met, make it very clear to them.
 In this country’s business culture, giving gifts is not particularly common.
Only after you've established a trusting, familiar relationship with someone
may you give a small and not obviously expensive gift as a sign of
friendship.
 This country 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 pantsuits or skirt suits, accessorized with simple jewelry and
makeup.

…………………………..

 Business events are well structured and straight to the point. You don't want
to be joking during business meetings.
 Be punctual. These people are hardworking, so you want to demonstrate
that their time is valuable.
 When entering business meetings, allow the oldest person to enter the room
first.

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 ……………………………….

 Business meetings often last longer than planned, but do not leave before
the meeting has officially ended. Leaving early is considered rude.
 In this country, physical contact during conversation is natural and
highlights the trust between business partners.
 You should avoid eating with your hands. Even if you're eating a sandwich,
you'll want to use a napkin or utensil.

…………………………………...

 When conversing with your partners from this country, try saying "please,"
"thank you" and "sorry" frequently, as this is considered polite.
 The people of this country often don't retain eye contact during a
conversation.
 They like to have personal space, so don't stand too close.

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