Greetings

• The traditional Vietnamese greeting is a bow, with the hands together. Men will shake hands with foreigners; women usually do not.

• Names are given in this order: Surname, middle name, given name. Since there are very few Vietnamese surnames (i.e.: Nguyen, pronounced "n'win") people are addressed with Mr., Madam, Mrs. or Miss and their given name.

• Mornings are preferred for appointments. Remember that meetings can also be held on Saturday mornings, since most Vietnamese work a six-day week.
• Business is the last thing brought up at meetings. The first visit may be entirely social.

• During the war, North Vietnam was allied with the USSR. As a result, some important Vietnamese may use aggressive Russian negotiating techniques: shouting, temper tantrums, pounding on desks and walking out in a huff. This is extremely startling when coming from the quiet, polite Vietnamese!

• Many executives and officials do not have private offices. Meetings are consequently held in conference rooms. You will be offered tea, or sometimes, coffee. Accept what ever you are served.