Blunders and Faux PasBeing aware of cultural no-nos around the world can greatly contribute to the success of a business trip.
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Germany: Always knock before opening an office door. Office furniture may seem far apart, but moving your chair closer is insulting to your host. Saudi Arabia: Everyone is subject to strict Islamic law (no alcohol, no pornography...). Mexico: The family is of vital importance. Nepotism is accepted; criticism of it is taken as an insult. China: Business leaders ar highly sensitive to sovereignty issues. Things must be done their way or not at all. India: Many cultures and cultural taboos. Be alert to your surroundings. Hindu tradition reveres cattle; do not wear leather. United Kingdom: Change is not necessarily a good thing in the U.K. Many businesspeople prefer old, well-made clothes to new fashions. Egypt: As in all Islamic countries, use the right hand in preference to the left (which is considered unclean). Argentina: Manners in Argentina are more British than Latin. Informality and casualness can make a bad first impression. Reprinted from SwissAir in-flight magazine, Gazette |