Global Business

Doing Business in the Global Marketplace

Our world is now connected in ways nearly unimaginable 100 years ago. Cultures: lifestyles, beliefs, habits, motivations,
buying patterns and trends differ around our world. Doing business within the borders of your originating country goes
with assumptions surrounding your culture. But what if your culture appears the same, yet differs in important areas?
What mistakes or faux pas could happen?

At Anthrocenter, we guide companies personnel to understand the obvious and the nuance of other cultures. Business can
become empires or be lost to dust, turning on a few words or gestures which offend. Americans often move too quickly,
speak too directly and in their urgency to conclude a deal, can lose it. Customs and manners are also not universal. Some
behaviors can be deal-breakers. We can guide your company to understand the customs of the people for international
business. Below are some interesting miscellaneous information about international customs.

Did you know that:

In France, during a meal you do not place your hands in your lap. Hands and wrists are propped on the table.
In China, don't discuss business at meals.
In Russia, don't stand with your hands in your pockets.
In England, you do place your hands in your lap during a meal when not using them.
In Japan, do not blow your nose in public.
In Great Britain, don't touch people and give them physical space.
In Germany, Don't attempt humor during business negotiations. Give them another 6 inches of personal space.
In France don't give chrysanthemums, the flowers are traditionally taken to cemeteries.
In India, avoid wearing or using objects made of leather, it offends their tradition of cows being revered.
In United Arab Republic, do not admire an object too much, they may feel obligated to give it to you, don't refuse a
gift.
In Scotland, you do not discuss family or personal matters as chitchat.
In India, do not wink, it is considered very rude and sexual.
In China, don't point with your index finger, use your hand with open palm.
In Japan, slurp your noodles with some noise.
In Italy, the number 17 is considered bad luck.
In France, you never switch wine color while dining.
In Argentina, hands stay off the lap.
In United Arab Republic, use your right hand always for all things, never use your left. Don't point at anyone.
In Japan, the word no is avoided.
In France, make direct eye contact when shaking hands but don't squeeze hard.
In Russia, India and Middle Eastern countries, do not show the soles of your feet.
In Japan, a smile can be intended as positive or negative. Try for neutral expressions.
In China, present and receive business cards with both hands. Don't write on the card or casually place it in your
pocket or wallet. Carry a case specifically for business cards.
In India, avoid the word "no" and instead be evasive.
In New Zealand and Australia, do not make the "V" or "Peace" sign with your first two fingers.
In Great Britain, the same "V" for victory with your palm facing you is very rude.
In Brazil, the "OK" sign with your fingers is considered rude.
In India, don't say thank you after a meal as the term is considered payment and is rude.

Here at the Center, we can also inform your company about international consumers. Our world is going global. Are you
ready?

International Consumers
American Consumers
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