Multi-National Enterprises and Their Custom

International business management
Research Project
Multi-National Enterprises and their Custom
1) Introduction:
The custom or culture in relation to MNEs in general, stated as for appearance, behaviour, and communication about
the countries and for the companies who are interested to establish business globally makes a clear study in relation to
their market culture, custom, business etiquette, and others in order to match their requirements and manage business
efficiently and effectively.
It is also suggested while establishing business eternally to hire area representative or manager from the same
country or citi!en residing around "# years and totally aware of their nature and culture of business.
The custom in a country varies from different categories and they are language, society, religion, marriage, culture
$current or past% and so on.
2) Objectives:
The purpose of this pro&ect research Multi-National Enterprises Custom is to identify an awareness of MNEs general
custom and complicated custom.
'n completion of this research I will be aware about listed countries custom and their culture and their suitability of
doing successful business and establishing multinational companies.
3) Executive Summary:
(ustom includes the areas and they are) etiquette, manners, and cross cultural, or intercultural communication have
become critical elements required for all International and *lobal +usiness directors, assistant eecutives, managers, and
employees.
,s international, multinational, transnational, multi domestic, and global business continues to epand and bring
people closer, the most important element of successful business outcomes may be the appreciation and respect for
regional, country, and cultural differences - known as cultural diversity.
.earning the skills of proper etiquette, manners, and intercultural communication contained in these pages of the
International +usiness custom and culture will give a wealth of information and resources that can be immediately apply
during international business travels and overseas assignments.
+y the end of this pro&ect there will be conclusions benefiting and outcome for people who concentrates in these
areas before traveling and doing business globally
Zubaidah Abdul Rehman, 20042080, BIS Page 1 of 23
Research Project
4) Description:
The detailed categories will involve)
/. ,ppearance
Highlights business etiquette do's and don'ts involving Dress, Clothing, Body Language, and estures
". +ehavior
Highlights business etiquette do's and don'ts involving Dining, i!ts, Meetings, and eneral behavioral guidelines
0. (ommunication
Highlights business etiquette do's and don'ts involving reetings, "ntrodu#tions, and Conversational guidelines
5) ist o! "#Es:
,s per the International +usiness Management tet book the below is the top list of MNEs and their number of
MNEs around the world is mentioned in the right row)
"#Es $ountry #umber o! "#Es
%S 1&'
(apan 112
S) *orea 12
S+it,er-and 12
$anada .
/ustra-ia &
0ra,i- 5
$1ina 4
#or+ay 2
2on3 *on3 1
4ai+an 1
"a-aysia 1
"exico 1
5ene,ue-a 1
6ussia 1
India 1
#./. %nited States
5)1)1) /ppearance
+usiness suit and tie are appropriate in all ma&or cities.
1ear dark colored business suits in classic colors of gray and navy.
2or an important formal meeting, choose a white dress shirt, for less
formal a light blue shirt will still give you a conservative appearance.
Research Project
1omen should wear a suit or dress with &acket in ma&or cities. 1earing classic clothing and classic colors
of navy, gray, ivory, and white will ensure you give a confident and conservative appearance.
3ural areas and areas with etremely warm summers have more informal wardrobe requirements.
1omen may wear a business dress, or skirt and blouse, in rural areas.
Men may conduct business without wearing a &acket and4or tie in rural areas.
The formality of a meeting, even in rural areas, may dictate a sports &acket and tie for men. The same
formality will require a woman to wear a dress, possibly with a &acket.
(asual clothing is appropriate when not attending a work related meeting4dinner. +uilding a casual
wardrobe using classic lines and colors $navy, gray, camel, ivory and white% will give you a look that is
stylish and professional even when you are relaing.
(lothing, whether formal or casual, should be clean and neat in appearance.
Men may generally wear &eans or khaki pants with a shirt for casual attire.
1omen may wear comfortably fitting slacks with a casual shirt. 1earing &eans or shorts, even in a casual
setting, may be inappropriate for the city. It is better to err on the conservative side if you are not sure.

5)1)2) 0e1avior
+usiness conversation may take place during meals. 5owever, many times you will find more social
conversation taking place during the actual meal.
+usiness meetings may be arranged as breakfast meetings, luncheon meetings, or dinner meetings
depending on time schedules and necessity. *enerally a dinner, even though for business purposes, is
treated as a social meal and a time to build rapport.
*ift giving is discouraged or limited by many 67 companies. , gracious written note is always appropriate
and acceptable.
If you do give a gift, it should not appear to be a bribe.
,n invitation for a meal or a modest gift is usually acceptable.
If you are someplace with a line or queue, go to the end and wait your turn.
8o not use or chew on a toothpick in public.
Many public places and private homes do not allow smoking. In some areas laws have been passed to
prevent smoking in public places.
5)1)3) $ommunications
'ffer a firm handshake, lasting 0-# seconds, upon greeting and leaving. Maintain good eye contact during
your handshake. If you are meeting several people at once, maintain eye contact with the person you are
shaking hands with, until you are moving on the net person.
*ood eye contact during business and social conversations shows interest, sincerity and confidence.
Research Project
*ood friends may briefly embrace, although the larger the city, usually the more formal the behavior.
Introductions include one9s title if appropriate, or Mr., Ms, Mrs. and the full name.
+usiness cards are generally echanged during introductions. 5owever, they may be echanged when one
party is leaving.
, smile is a sign of friendliness, and in rural areas you may be
greeted with a :hello: rather than a handshake.
,sk permission to smoke before lighting a cigarette or cigar.
8ue to health concerns, you may or may not be given
permission.
In order to have effective communications avoid using +ritish
terms, words, and eamples. ,s it might humiliate or distract
your business conversation.
o This can be done by understanding and making search about the differences in ,merican and
+ritish language and their differences on specific terms, format, style, words, idioms, and so on.
#.". (apan
5)2)1) /ppearance
Those who dress according to their status or position impress the
;apanese. 8ress to impress.
Men should wear dark conservative attire. +usiness suits are most
suitable.
(asual dress is never appropriate in a business setting.
7hoes should be easy to remove, as you will do so often. 7lip-ons are
the best choice.
1omen should not wear pants in a business situation. ;apanese men tend to find it offensive.
1omen<s dress should be conservative. .ittle emphasis should be placed on accessories. They should be
minimal.
1omen should only wear low-heeled shoes to avoid towering over men.
,void using large hand gestures, unusual facial epressions and any dramatic movements.
Maintaining serious epression shows your great interest in the pro&ect or business dealings.
$he %apanese do not tal& 'ith their hands and to do so #ould distra#t your host(
)void the *+,* sign- in %apan it means money(
.ointing in not a##eptable(
Do no blo' your nose in publi#
Research Project
.ersonal spa#e is valued( Be#ause the %apanese live in su#h a densely populated area, they value their
personal spa#e(
, smile can have double meaning. It can epress either &oy or displeasure. 6se caution with your facial
epressions. They can be easily misunderstood.
The ;apanese are not uncomfortable with silence. They use it to their advantage in many situations. ,llow
your host to sit in silence.
However in Japanese culture and custom there are many dos and don'ts that require a heavy study or research
and concentration plus practice before planning for any business trip.
5)2)2) 0e1avior
$he 'ord !or toasting is &ampai, pronoun#ed '&ahm-pie'( /hen toasting the glass is never le!t un!illed(
Drin&ing is an important part o! %apanese #ulture( "t is a 'ay to relieve business stress(
Never pour a drink yourself= always allow someone else to do it for you.
Most business entertaining is done in restaurants or bars a!ter business hours( +!ten in &arao&e or *hostess
bars(* Business'omen should not attend *hostess bars(*
.et the host order the meal and pay. +usiness may be discussed at dinner during these events.
;apanese rarely entertain in the home. If you are invited to the home of your ;apanese host, consider it a great
honor and display a tremendous amount of appreciation.
"! you are invited to a so#ial event, pun#tuality is not e0pe#ted( "t is the #ustom to be *!ashionably late(*
"! you do ta&e your host out insist upon paying( $he %apanese 'ill re!use but insist( $hey 'ill pre!er that you
#hoose a /estern-style restaurant 'hen entertain them(
,ey phrases to learn are *itada&imasu* at the beginning o! dinner, and *go#hisou-sama-deshita* at the end(
"t is polite use these phrase and it 'ill sho' you host that you have en1oyed the meal(
*2umimasen* 3e0#use-me4 is a very use!ul term to add to your vo#abulary along 'ith the phrase *&e&&o desu*
3"'ve had enough4(
"t is per!e#tly a##eptable to slurp your noodles( Doing so 'ill e0hibit your en1oyment o! your !ood( $o do
other'ise, indi#ates that your meal 'as not a pleasant one(
8o not openly display money. It is rare to see it given from person to person in ;apan. It is important to use an
envelope to pass money.
In ,sia the number /> is bad luck, because in ;apanese it sounds like the word ?shuh-shuh<, which sounds like
the word for death.
Tipping is not epected.
*ift giving is very important both business and personal gifts.
,lways wrap gifts. The selection of the wrapping paper is critical.
o 8o not give anything wrapped in white as it symboli!es death.
Research Project
o 8o not use bright colors or bows to wrap the gift.
o It is better to have the hotel or the store wrap the gift to ensure that it is appropriate.
8o not surprise the recipient with the gift. *ive your host some warning during the evening that you intend to
give them a present.
*ive the gift with both hands and accept gifts with hands.
*enerally, gifts will not be opened in your presence. If your host insists that you open the gift do so gingerly.
They take pride in gift wrapping, show that you appreciation the effort.
*ifts should be given at the end of a visit.
$he most popular gi!t giving o##asions in %apan are oseibo, 'hi#h !alls at the end o! the year and +-#hugen
'hi#h !alls during the middle o! the year(
ood gi!t ideas in#lude top #hoi#e bee!, !ruit and al#ohol su#h as brandy, quality 'his&ey and Bourbon along
'ith e0#ellent 'ines( $hey also appre#iate gi!ts !rom high-end department stores li&e 2a&s and Neiman
Mar#us(
$he %apanese !ro'n on open displays o! a!!e#tion( $hey do not tou#h in publi#( "t is highly inappropriate to
tou#h someone o! the opposite se0 in publi#(

In ;apan, business cards are called meishi.
6pon receiving the business card the etiquettes are@
o ;apanese give and receive meishi with both hands.
o It should be printed in your home language on one side and ;apanese on the other.
o Aresent the card with the ;apanese language side up.
The card will contain the name and title along with the company name, address and telephone number of the
businessman.
Take special care in handling cards that are given to you.
o 8o not write on the card.
o 8o not put the card in you pocket or wallet, as either of these actions will be viewed as defacing or
disrespecting the business card.
o 6pon receipt of the card, it is important to make a photocopy of the name and title of the individual
in your mind.
o Eamine the card carefully as a show of respect.
o In a business situation, business cannot begin)
6ntil the meishi echange process is complete.
The customary greeting is the bow. Ho'ever, some %apanese may greet you 'ith a handsha&e, albeit a 'ea&
one( Do not misinterpret a 'ea& handsha&e as an indi#ation o! #hara#ter.
Research Project
If you are greeted with a bow, return with a bow as low as the one you received. 5ow low you bow
determines the status of the relationship between you and the other individual. 1hen you bow keep your eyes
low and your palms flat net to your thighs. The business card should be given after the bow.
In introductions use the person<s last name plus the word san which means Mr. or Ms. the ;apanese prefer to
use last names.
o 8o not request that they call you by your first name
only.
o If you are uncertain about the pronunciation of a
name, ask for assistance.
5nderstand that the %apanese pre!er not to use the 'ord no( "!
you as& a question they may simply respond 'ith a yes but
#learly mean no( 5nderstanding this is #riti#al in the
negotiation pro#ess(
"n )sia the number 67 is bad lu#&, be#ause in %apanese it
sounds li&e the 'ord 8shuh-shuh9, 'hi#h sounds li&e the 'ord !or death(
#.0. $anada
5)3)1) /ppearance
.lan !or a very #old #limate, espe#ially during their 'inter(
Men and women should wear a dark conservative business suit with tie,
especially in cities.
o Build a 'ardrobe based on #lassi# lines 3sele#ting suits 'ith a
traditional lapel 'idth, and ties staying 'ithin a traditional
'idth range4(
o Conservative #olors o! navy and gray, and shirts in 'hite and light blue(
/omen should 'ear a #onservative business suit or dress, espe#ially in #ities( 2ele#t your #lothing 'ith #lassi#
lines and #olors in mind( Navy, gray, ivory, and 'hite are the basi#s to 'or& 'ith( $he ma1or #ities #an be very
sophisti#ated(
Ne' or trendy #lothing is a poor #hoi#e( +lder, #lassi# #lothing that is #lean and neat is more valued( Choosing
quality, natural !ibers !or your 'ardrobe 'ill give you this loo&( :uality leather shoes are important to
#ompleting this loo&(
;ural areas are less !ormal, but stay #onservative in your 'ardrobe( Even 'ith #old 'inter 'eather you may
!ind yoursel! in a s&irt or dress( )dd a good quality long #oat 'ith minimal and #lassi# detail to your 'ardrobe(
Research Project
"n addition to navy and gray, a #lassi# #amel #oat, or a lined Burberry may be a good addition( $his 'ill 'or&
!or a sophisti#ated #ity meeting, or a more #asual rural meeting(
Casual attire is appropriate 'hen you are not 'or&ing( $he 'eather and a#tivity 'ill di#tate 'hat you 'ill be
'earing( Build a #asual 'ardrobe using the #lassi# #olors 3#amel is additional #olor !or #asual4( <ou 'ill loo&
pro!essional, even though rela0ed(
The :B for Bictory: sign is an insult if your palm is facing yourself. If you must use this sign, face your palm
outward.
5)3)2) 0e1avior
+e punctual for meetings and appointments, as promptness is valued.
o "n =ren#h areas, time is more rela0ed(
o Ho'ever, you 'ill be e0pe#ted to arrive at the appointed time, even i! the =ren#h attending the meeting
don't(
)l'ays maintain a reserved demeanor, and !ollo' good rules o! etiquette( $raditions and gra#ious manners are
part o! the #ulture, even in more rural areas( "! you travel to di!!erent #ities or areas, pay attention to lo#al
#ustoms( By being observant, you 'ill respe#t the pa#e and nuan#es o! ea#h area(
8o not eat while walking in public. .lan your time so you #an stop in a #a!> or restaurant to en1oy your sna#&(
*ifts are not routinely given. If you do give a gift when you arrive or when you are leaving, make it a modest
one. , lavish gift, though accepted, would be frowned upon.
*ifts are given to celebrate finali!ing a negotiation, a contract, or a pro&ect.
$a&ing a business asso#iate to a ni#e meal or an evening sporting event, play, or symphony is al'ays a ni#e
gesture(
Invitations to private homes are rare. 'ccasionally, in the western provinces, you may be invited to someone9s
home. If you are invited, you may take candy, flowers, or liquor to the host or hostess.
1ait for your host to start a business conversation during or following a meal.
Traditionally, business is not discussed during dinner= however, this is slowly changing.
.ersonal spa#e and body movement or gestures di!!er bet'een the English and the =ren#h provin#es and #ities(
"n English areas, body movement is minimal, there is rarely tou#hing other than handsha&es, and personal
spa#e - ho' #lose someone stands - is about t'o !eet( "n =ren#h areas, people stand #loser together, people 'ill
!requently tou#h, and gestures are more e0pressive(
6se a firm handshake with good eye contact when meeting and leaving. +oth 2rench and English areas use and
epect a firm handshake.
Men 'ill 'ait !or a 'oman to e0tend her hand !or a handsha&e(
Research Project
=ren#h Canadians 'ill sha&e hands more !requently, even 'ith a subsequent en#ounter the same day( +thers
may 1ust nod or smile at a subsequent en#ounter on the same day(
6se a person9s title if he or she has one. 'therwise, use Mr., Mrs., Miss and the surname.
English is spo&en in most o! Canada( =ren#h is spo&en in :uebe#, and some area o! Nova 2#otia and Ne'
Bruns'i#&
=ren#h Canadians may use their !irst name 'hen tal&ing to you on the telephone, but 'ill generally use their
!ull name 'hen meeting you in person(
+e open and friendly in your conversation.
o "! you are naturally reserved in your behavior, you 'ill appear #on!ident and #redible(
o "! your natural tenden#y is large s'eeping arm gestures, restrain yoursel! 'hen meeting and tal&ing
'ith Canadians - other than 'ith =ren#h Canadians(
=ren#h Canadians stand #loser and are more demonstrative 'hen tal&ing(
=or =ren#h Canadians, print all material in =ren#h and English(
Don't be boast!ul, and don't overstate your
produ#t or servi#e's #apabilities( <ou #ould
impli#ate your #ompany in a legal situation(
"! you are !rom the 5( 2(, don't say, *'e
)meri#ans*, in!erring you are in#luding your
Canadian hosts or guests in your re!eren#e(
Canada is a distin#t #ountry 'ith its o'n
'onder!ul history and #ulture(
#.>. /ustra-ia
5)4)1) /ppearance
Men wear a conservative dark business suit and tie.
/omen may 'ear a dress, or s&irt and blouse, !or business(
Informal clothing is appropriate when not attending business
functions.
(asual pants are fine for both men and women.
Men should not be#ome physi#ally demonstrative 'ith another man, or 'in& at a 'oman(
5)4)2) 0e1avior
Being pun#tual is #riti#al(
Zubaidah Abdul Rehman, 20042080, BIS Page of 23
Research Project
Maintain good eye #onta#t during meetings and #onversations(
) single, male passenger using a ta0i should sit in the !ront seat(
*ift giving is not a common practice in business.
Cou may bring a small gift of chocolate, wine or flowers if invited to someone9s home.
1hen paying for a round of drinks, do not pick up the tab out of turn, and make sure to pay when it is your
turn.
7hould you approach a line4queue, go to the end4back and wait your turn.
Do not litter(
English is the spoken language
7hake hands when meeting and when leaving.
)lthough un#ommon, some 'omen may greet ea#h other 'ith a &iss on the #hee&(
Echanging business cards is common among
professional workers.
)ustralians are !riendly and open, but dire#tness and
brevity are valued(
+pinions are respe#ted, and opinionated dis#ussions
are entertaining(
+e an active listener, and ask if you do not understand
something in the conversation.
8o not hype yourself, your company or your
information.
7ightseeing and sports are good conversational topics
,fternoon tea is about >)DDpm
Tea is between E)DD - F)DDpm and is an evening meal
7upper is a late night light meal or snack
#.#. 0ra,i-
5)5)1) /ppearance
Three-piece suits carry an :eecutive: connotation, whereas two-piece suits are associated with office
workers.
o Conservative attire !or 'omen in business is very important(
Research Project
o )lso ma&e sure your nails are mani#ured
The colors of the +ra!ilian flag are yellow and green. ,void wearing this
combination in any fashion
$ou#hing arms and elbo's and ba#&s very #ommon
$he +( ,( hand signal a rude gesture in Bra?il
$o e0press appre#iation, a Bra?ilian may appear to pin#h his earlobe bet'een thumb and !ore!inger
$o invo&e good lu#&, pla#e your thumb bet'een your inde0 an middle !inders 'hile ma&ing a !ist( $his is
also &no'n as the *!ig*
=li#&ing the !ingertips underneath the #hin indi#ates that you do not &no' the ans'er to a question
5)5)2) 0e1avior
Make appointments at least two weeks in advance.
Never try to ma&e impromptu #alls at business or government o!!i#es(
Be prepared to #ommit long term resour#es 3both in time and money4 to'ard establishing strong
relationships in Bra?il( $his is the &ey to business su##ess(
2ome regions have a #asualness about both time and 'or&( Ho'ever 2an .aulo is not one o! those, and in
;io #asual re!ers to the personal and so#ial events, not business( "n these t'o #ities, business meetings tend
to start on time
Never start into business dis#ussions be!ore your host does(
+usiness meetings normally begin with casual 9chatting9 first
Midday the normal time for the main meal.
) light meal is #ommon at night, unless entertaining !ormally(
)meri#an #o!!ee is a mere shado' o! Bra?ilian #o!!ee( E0pe#t to be served small #ups o! very strong #o!!ee
"n Bra?il, restaurant entertainment prevails versus at home(
"! entertained in the home, it is polite to send !lo'ers to the hostess the ne0t day, 'ith a than&-you note
*iving a gift is not required at a first business meeting= instead buy lunch or dinner
.urple !lo'ers are e0tensively used at !unerals, so be #autious 'hen giving someone purple !lo'ers( @iolets
are +, to give(
$oastA 2aude or @iva 32ah-++-Day, @EE-va4
Tipping is typically /DG in +ra!il
"! you here the term 1eito - it re!ers to the idea that nothing is set in stone, that a good attempt #an brea& a
rule(
5andshaking, often for a long time, is common.
Research Project
2ha&e hands !or hello and goodbye- use good eye #onta#t- 'hen leaving a small group, be sure to sha&e
hands 'ith everyone present
/hen 'omen meet, they e0#hange &isses by pla#ing their #hee&s together and &issing the air
2irst names used often, but titles important
Musi# and long, animated #onversation are !avorite Bra?ilian habits( /hen #onversing, interruptions
vie'ed as enthusiasm( Bra?ilians en1oy 1o&ing, in!ormality, and !riendships
Aortuguese is the language of +ra!il
*ood conversation topics) soccer, family, and children
+ad conversation topics) ,rgentina, politics, poverty, religion, and the 3ain
2orest
2tay a'ay !rom phases su#h as, *"s it true that everyone in Bra?il is either
very ri#h or very poorB* "t is very li&ely you 'ill be tal&ing 'ith someone
that isn't either one
#.E. $1ina
5)')1) /ppearance
(onservative suits for men with subtle colors are the norm.
/omen should avoid high heels and short sleeved blouses( $he Chinese
!ro'n on 'omen 'ho display too mu#h(
2ubtle, neutral #olors should be 'orn by both men and 'omen(
(asual dress should be conservative as well.
Men and women can wear &eans. 5owever, &eans are not acceptable for business meetings.
;evealing #lothing !or 'omen is #onsidered o!!ensive to Chinese businessmen(
5)')2) 0e1avior
8o not use large hand movements.
o $he Chinese do not spea& 'ith their hands(
o <our movements may be distra#ting to your host(
.ersonal #onta#t must be avoided at all #ost( "t is highly inappropriate !or a man to tou#h a 'oman in
publi#(
Do not point 'hen spea&ing(
$o point do not use your inde0 !inger, use an open palm(
"t is #onsidered improper to put your hand in your mouth(
Research Project
)void a#ts that involve the mouth(
i!t giving is a very deli#ate issue in China(
"t is illegal to give gi!ts to government o!!i#ial ho'ever- it has be#ome more #ommonpla#e in the business
'orld(
"t is more a##eptable to give gi!ts either in private or to a group as a 'hole to avoid embarrassment(
$he most a##eptable gi!t is a banquet(
:uality 'riting pens as #onsidered !avored gi!ts(
$he !ollo'ing gi!ts andCor #olors are asso#iated 'ith death and should not be givenA
D Clo#&s
D 2tra' sandals
D ) stor& or #rane
D Hand&er#hie!s
D )nything 'hite, blue or bla#&
,lways arrive on time or early if you are the guest.
8o not discuss business at meals.
8o not start to eat or drink prior to the host.
,s a cultural courtesy, you should taste all the dishes you are offered.
2ample meals only, there may be several #ourses(
Never pla#e your #hopsti#&s straight up in your bo'l( By pla#ing your sti#&s upright in your bo'l your 'ill
remind your host o! 1oss sti#&s 'hi#h #onnotes death(
Do not drop the #hopsti#&s it is #onsidered bad lu#&(
8o not eat all of your meal.
o If you eat all of your meal, the (hinese will assume you did not receive enough food and are still
hungry.
/omen do not usually drin& at meals(
Tipping is considered insulting, however the practice is becoming more common.
5)')3) $ommunications
+owing or nodding is the common greeting= however, you may be offered a handshake.
/ait !or the Chinese to o!!er their hand !irst(
)pplause is #ommon 'hen greeting a #ro'd- the same is e0pe#ted in return(
Introductions are formal. 5se !ormal titles(
+!ten times Chinese 'ill use a ni#&name to assist /esterners(
+eing on time is vital in (hina.
,ppointments are a must for business.
Research Project
(ontacts should be made prior to your trip.
+ring several copies of all written documents for your meetings.
The decision making process is slow. Cou should not epect to conclude your business swiftly.
Many Chinese 'ill 'ant to #onsult 'ith the stars or 'ait !or a lu#&y day be!ore they ma&e a de#ision(
Aresent and receive cards with both hands.
Never 'rite on a business #ard or put it in your 'allet or po#&et(
Carry a small #ard #ase(
The most important member of your company or group should lead
important meetings. (hinese value rank and status.
o 2or instance if (E' is present in the meeting Eecutive
,ssistant should not lead the meeting.
8evelop a working knowledge of (hinese culture.
)llo' the Chinese to leave a meeting !irst(
#.H. 2on3 *on3
5)&)1) /ppearance
The color red is considered a lucky color in 5ong Iong.
1hen dressing for a business meeting selects a red tie to impress your host.
$he #olor 'hite is synonymous 'ith death(

5)&)2) 0e1avior
$he toast is an integral part o! the #ulture in Hong ,ong(
)ll #ountries have a standard toast ho'ever ea#h #ountry has a di!!erent pronun#iation !or the 'ord toast(
anbei is the popular Chinese toast( "t means dry glass or bottoms up(
The guest of honor makes the first toast.
2ollow the lead of your host when dining.
8o not blow your nose at the table or in public.
Do not rub your #hopsti#& together be!ore dining( "t implies that you have been given poor quality
#hopsti#&s that may have splinters(
It is impolite to refuse to drink. Even if you do not drink, accept it and toast with your host.
Drin&ing helps to rela0 the host and is an important part o! the relationship building phase in Chinese
business #ulture(
*ift giving is a very important part of (hinese culture.
Bar hopping and &aro&e are standard means o! entertainment(
Research Project
Be prepared to be ta&en out on the to'n almost every night during your stay in Hong ,ong(
,t close of trip, have a dinner for your host as show of respect.
5)&)3) $ommunications
The handshake is fairly common in 5ong Iong, however a slight bow will show a sign of respect.
, round of applause may greet you during your visit. The (hinese like to applaud. Cou are epected to
return the applause out of respect.
+ecause 5ong Iong is so densely populated the (hinese tend to converse very closely together.
7ilence is held in high regard in 5ong Iong. ,llow your host to contemplate without interruption.
Names are usually written in the following order the last
name first, middle name second and the first name last.
6se titles with names whenever possible.
,ppointments are recommended.
Aunctuality is epected.
6se only black and white materials for presentations, as
colors are very significant.
Aatience is important. The (hinese do not make business
decisions quickly.
#.F. 4ai+an
5).)1) /ppearance
(onservative dress for men is changing rapidly to a more open style, due
largely in part to the younger staff.
1omen should dress conservatively as well with a simple skirt and blouse.
(ausal activities should reflect a modest dress.
,ppearance should be neat and clean.
1inking is inappropriate in any situation.
8o not touch another person<s shoulders.
8o not touch anyone<s head particularly the head of someone<s child. (hildren are held in very high regard
in Taiwan.
8o not touch or point at anything with your feet, they are considered dirty.
5).)2) 0e1avior
Research Project
+usiness hours are very similar to 1estern countries and may sometimes be longer as the Taiwanese people
are very hard working.
+usiness relationships are based on respect.
Meet face-to-face if possible.
Elders make the decisions.
,lways include a senior eecutive in meetings.
(andor is not appreciated.
8ivide topics into segments for presentations.
8irect presentations to the senior ranking individual.
5ave all new products registered and or patented to avoid copying.
Translate all written documents.
7ubtlety is key.
Modify tone and volume as not to appear loud.
8o not visit a home without an invitation.
8o not discard food from your mouth back to your plate or bowl.
*ood topics during dinner include art, family, and (hinese sightseeing.
*ift giving is common practice in business.
*ood choices are items with your company logo on them for your first visit to Taiwan.
*ive and receive gifts with both hands.
*ifts will not be opened in your presence.
2ood is a good gift.
,void giving knives, scissors or cutting tools as they symboli!e the cutting off of friendships.
5).)3) $ommunications
, nod of your head is an appropriate greeting.
5andshakes are for casual meetings and introductions.
+owing slightly is a good way to show respect with your hands to your sides and
your feet together - More ;apanese than (hinese.
+usiness has become westerni!ed and both men and women shake hands.
:5ave you eatenJ< is a standard greeting. It is more of a rhetorical question.
,lways wait for introductions.
Aunctuality is of great importance in Taiwan.
#.K. "exico
5)7)1) /ppearance
Research Project
Men should wear a conservative dark suit and tie. Cour wardrobe should include suits that have classic lines
and tailoring in gray or navy, and white or light blue shirts. , white shirt is more formal and should be worn
when the formality of the meeting dictates.
1omen should wear a dress or skirt and blouse. , classic suit may also be worn. +uild a wardrobe using
classic lines, classic skirt lengths, and basic classic colors - gray, navy, white, and ivory.
Men may wear pants and a light shirt for casual. Alan a casual wardrobe using the classic colors, plus
camel, and you will be casual, yet polished. 7hould you have the opportunity to wear a guayabera, the
wonderful traditional lightweight shirt, you wear is out over your pants. This design is very comfortable in
warmer weather.
1omen may wear a blouse with pants or a skirt for casual. To present yourself as professional and polished,
even in an informal setting, build your casual wardrobe using classic shades of gray, blue, camel, white and
ivory.
;eans are generally not appropriate, and tight or low cut clothing is never appropriate.
7tanding with your hands on your hips suggests aggressiveness, and keeping your hands in your pockets is
impolite.
Meicans may not make eye contact. This is a sign of respect and should not be taken as an affront.

5)7)2) 0e1avior
Men shake hands upon meeting and leaving, and will wait for a woman to be the first to offer her hand.
1omen may shake hands with men and other women. Many times a woman may pat another woman9s
shoulder or forearm, or kiss on the cheek.
.ongtime friends may embrace, and after several meetings you may also be greeted with an embrace.
Aunctuality is not rigid because of the emphasis on personal obligations. The best time for appointments is
between /D)DD a.m. and /)DD p.m., with late afternoon a second choice.
+usiness lunches, rather than dinners are the traditional form of business entertaining and are usually
prolonged affairs, beginning between ")DD and 0)DD p.m. and lasting three to four hours, with little time
being devoted to actual business. .unches are an essential part of business to establish a personal
relationship.
1orking breakfasts are also popular, meeting at F)DD or F)0D at your hotel, and usually lasting two hours at
the most.
(onversations take place at a close physical distance. 7tepping back may be regarded as unfriendly.
Meican men are warm and friendly, and make a lot of physical contact. They often touch shoulders or hold
another<s arm. To withdraw from this touch is considered insulting.
*iving gifts to business eecutives is not required. 7mall items with a company logo $for an initial visit% are
appreciated.
Research Project
7ecretaries do appreciate gifts. If giving a valuable gift, such as perfume or a scarf, present it on a return
visit. , man giving it to a female secretary should indicate the gift is from his wife.
*ifts are not required for a dinner guest, but will be appreciated. *ood choices are candy, flowers $sent
ahead of time%, or local crafts from home.
1hen giving flowers) yellow L represent death, red L cast spells, and white L lift spells.
8o not give gifts made of silver, as it is associated with trinkets sold to tourists.
1omen should not invite a male counterpart for a business dinner unless other associates or spouses attend.
,lso, Meican men will graciously attempt to pay for a meal, even though you are hosting it. ,
professional way to host a meal is to dine or lunch at your hotel. Are-arrange to have the meal added to your
hotel bill.
Tipping is appropriate for services provided. 1ages are often so low that workers depend heavily on
gratuities for their income.
Aay for store purchases by placing money in the cashier<s hand, rather than on the counter.
3efrain from using first names until invited to do so.
Titles are important and should be included on business cards. Cou may directly speak to someone by only
using his or her title only, without including the last name.
8octor is a physician or Ah.8. Arofesor it the title for a teacher. Ingeniero is an engineer. ,rquitecto is an
architect. ,bogado is a lawyer.
Aeople without professional titles are addressed using Mr., Mrs., or Miss and his or her surname. 7enor is
Mr., 7enora is Mrs., and 7enorita is Miss
5ispanics generally use two surnames. The first surname listed is from the father, and the second surname
listed is from the mother. 1hen speaking to someone use his or her father<s surname.
, married woman will add her husband9s father9s name to the end of her name, usually shown as de $name%
when written. This woman would be formally addressed as 7enora de $name%.
In speaking to this same married woman less formally, you would simply say 7enora $name%.
8o not use red ink anytime you are writing someone9s name.
The traditional toast in Meico is 7alud $7al-668%.
Meican<s use a :psst-psst: sound to catch another<s attention in public. This is not considered rude.
Meicans refer to people from the 6nited 7tates as North ,mericans.
*ood conversational topics are Meican culture, history, art, and museums.
Never discuss the Meican-,merican war, poverty, illegal aliens, or earthquakes.
Research Project
#./D. 5ene,ue-a
5)18)1) /ppearance
8ress for men is conservative L dark business suits of tropical weight
wool
2ashion is very important to Bene!uelan women. 1omen should pack
their best business clothes and one cocktail dress
Aeople tend to stand very close together when conversing.
Bene!uelans often touch each other<s arms or &acket during
conversation
Aosture while seated is important= avoid slouching

5)18)2) 0e1avior
+usiness people are punctual and small talk is minimal
It is good practice to follow up morning appointments with an invitation to lunch
5ave business cards printed in English on one side and 7panish on the other. +e sure your position is
clearly indicated and present your card immediately following an introduction
6nlike lunch, dinner is for sociali!ing, not for business
+usinesswomen should be aware that going out alone with Bene!uelan businessmen may be misconstrued
The two senior eecutives should sit facing each other
1hen dining, wait until everyone is served before beginning to eat
*uests rarely sit at the head of the table
To indicate you have finished eating, place your utensils in parallel and diagonally across your plate
,n appropriate gift for a man is something for the office - such as a good quality pen. , women would
appreciate the gift of an orchid L the national flower
*uests may bring or send flowers or candy to a hostess
The senior visiting business person may give a toast offering good wishes for business negotiations, adding
a memori!ed 7panish phrase about the pleasure of being with Bene!uelans
Research Project

5andshaking by both sees common and customary= shake hands on greeting and departing. The
handshake is firm
*ood friends hug and women kiss cheeks
,void dominating the conversation. Bene!uelans like to be in control
Titles are important and should be included on business cards. ,ddress a person directly by using his or her
title only. , Ah.8.8 or a physician is called 8octor. Teachers prefer the title Arofesor, engineers go by
Ingeniero, architects are ,rquitecto, and lawyers are ,bogado. Aersons who do not have professional titles
should be addressed as Mr., Mrs., or Miss, plus their surnames.
In 7panish these are)
Mr. M 7enor
Mrs. M 7enora
Miss M 7enorita
Most 5ispanics have two surnames) one from their father, which is listed first, followed by one from their
mother. 'nly the father<s surname is used when addressing someone
*ood conversation topics) business, art, literature, history
+ad conversation topics) local unrest, inflation, politics

#.//. 6ussia
Research Project
5)11)1) /ppearance
+usinessmen in 3ussia usually wear suits that are dark and well tailored
along with good dress shoes. , businessman<s wardrobe demonstrates
the individual<s image as a professional.
Men often do not take off their &ackets in negotiations.
8o not stand with your hands in your pockets. This is considered rude.
1omen dress rather conservatively, avoiding overly flashy or gaudy
outfits.
1omen should always cover their heads when entering into any 3ussian 'rthodo (hurches.
7kirts should be worn rather than pants.
1hen attending dinner in a citi!en<s home, casual dress of slacks and a nice shirt without a tie are
appropriate.
5)11)2) 0e1avior
,s a foreigner, you are epected to be on time to all business appointments. 5owever, your 3ussian
counterpart may be late, as this may be a test of your patience. 8o not epect an apology from a late
3ussian, and do not demonstrate any kind of attitude if your business appointments begin one or two hours
late. This may also be a test of your patience.
7ocial events are more relaed. It is acceptable for foreigners to be /# to 0D minutes late.
Aatience is an etremely important virtue among 3ussians= punctuality is not.
3ussians are known as great :sitters: during negotiations, this demonstrates their tremendous patience.
The 6.7.7.3. was officially an atheist nation in the days of communism. Now, however, participation in
religion in increasing, with many citi!ens practicing Arotestantism, Islam, 3ussian 'rthodoy, and ;udaism.
7ome 9hard-line9 3ussians still view compromise as a sign of weakness, and often refuse to back down. To
these individuals, compromising is bad business.
,s a foreigner, you should reali!e that :2inal 'ffers: are often not actually the end of the negotiations, and
that often times the outcome will be more beneficial and attractive if you can hold out.
There is a 3ussian term meaning :connections: or :influences. It is etremely difficult to do business in
3ussia without help from a local. To help with this, gifts, money or other items are often a good idea when
doing business in 3ussia.
If attending dinner at a family residence, it is appropriate to bring a gift, such as a bottle of wine, dessert, or
a bouquet of flowers.
1hen shaking hands with someone, be sure to take off your gloves, as it is considered rude not to.
1hen attending any formal engagements such as the theatre, it is appropriate to check your coat and other
belongings at the front door of the establishment.
Research Project
8o not show the soles of your shoes, as this is considered impolite. They are considered dirty, and should
never come in contact with any type of seat $like on a subway or bus%.
+e sure to have plenty of business cards with double sides of information. 'ne side should be printed in
English, the other side in 3ussian.
+e alert and open to taking a drink or having a toast, as refusing to do so is a serious breach of etiquette.
3ussian is the official language.
7peaking or laughing loudly in public is
considered rude, as 3ussians are generally
reserved and somber.
Many 3ussians speak English, as it is often
taught beginning in the third grade.
3ussians are highly literate, and have almost
a /DDG literacy rate.
*ood topics of conversation include peace, the current changes taking place in 3ussia, and their current
economic situation.
') /ssessment:
E./. $omp-icated $ustom
The ,sian countries are having complicated custom in appearance, dinning, meetings, and
so on.
E.". Standard $ustom
The ,merican and ,ustralian are having similar and standard custom that are showing of the
same level.
&) 9resentation:
The small presentation for this report is attached to this research.
.) $onc-usions:
F./. +usiness suit
F.". ,void &eans and casual clothing for business meetings
F.0. Not firm and light handshaking
F.>. ,void epensive gifts
F.#. Arovide humble and modest gift
Research Project
F.E. Echange business cards
F.H. 8o not place business card in pocket
F.F. Alace in business card case
F.K. 7chedule meetings in advance
F./D. 8on9t publici!e over the limit
F.//. Meal timings awareness
F./". 2or occasion send an invitation
F./0. 2or lunch or dinner verbal invitation
F./>. 6sually eternal meetings during lunch
F./#. 1ait in queue for your turn
F./E. ,void dresser miture of flag color
F./H. (arry more than enough documents and brochures
F./F. 8on9t epect reply or decision soon
F./K. ,llow enough time for reply

Multi-National Enterprises and Their Custom

Transféré par

Informations du document

Titre original

Copyright

Formats disponibles

Partager ce document

Partager ou intégrer le document

Options de partage

Avez-vous trouvé ce document utile ?

Ce contenu est-il inapproprié ?

Droits d'auteur :

Formats disponibles

Multi-National Enterprises and Their Custom

Transféré par

Droits d'auteur :

Formats disponibles

International business management

Vous aimerez peut-être aussi