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Canada
Be punctual. Canadians tend to be extremely punctual and appreciate it.
The official languages are English and French, so your card should be written in that two languages.
Avoid topics of conversation involving conflicts between the French and English Canada. And do not make the mistake of comparing Canada with the United States.
Do not sign the "V" for victory with your fingers - this is a serious offense for the Canadians.
China
Give yourself a Chinese name if you are going to be in China conducting a long-term business. Its considered a sign of respect and commitment.
Bring a small souvenir from your city or country to the business meetings. Chinese businesspeople appreciate gifts. A gift to avoid: watches, because they represent Death. Also, do not use white, black or blue wrapping paper, because they also represent Death. Use red to wish Luck or yellow for Happiness.
The Chinese will decline a gift three times before accepting it, so as not to appear greedy. You will have to continue to insist. Once the gift is accepted, express gratitude. It is expected to go through the same procedure if you are offered a gift.
Business meetings are very formal events and in the dinner meetings, you can expect many round of toasts; be careful not to abuse because the Chinese drink is strong.
Germany
With a no-nosense culture, the Germans are hard workers and business events are very structured. Do not be late. A simple delay of five minutes, can cause a bad impression.
Avoid personal contact. Keep the distance. The Germans are not fond of physical contact, beyond the very important handshake.
Be direct. Go straight to the point. If you are presenting a project, tell the facts and do not wrap the conversation. If proposition is presented to you, prepare yourself for a long presentation of graphs, and tables.
For lunch or dinner, always wait for the host to start, whether to drink or to talk. Do not forget to wish everyone "Guten Appetit" (Enjoy your meal) before starting to eat. Toasts are made with the words "Prost!" (Health) and "Zum Wohl" (to your health or your benefit) and touching the glasses, look me in the eyes of others. Generally, meal times are followed Toast "Erst mach' dein' Sach dann trink' und lach!" (First take care of business, then drink up and laugh!).
India
Dont be surprised if other guests arrive a few minutes late to business events, unless its an official function. But dont risk arriving late yourself; you wont insult anyone by showing on time.
Indians are very polite. Avoid use of the word "no" during business discussions, its considered rude. Opt for terms like "Let's see" or "I will try" or "Maybe".
Dont order beef is attending a business meal. Cows are considered sacred in Indian culture.
Traditional Indian food is eaten with the hands. If you must use your hands, either to eat or to offer something to someone, use only the right hand. The left hand is considered dirty, since it is used for personal hygiene in the bathroom.
Drinking alcohol is forbidden among Muslims, Sikhs and other Indian communities
Japan
Japanese culture is very welcoming and formal. Each one of your counterparts will bow during an introduction. Wait for them to initiate a handshake because it is less common, and sometimes avoided, in business.
The exchange of business cards is a very formal act that kicks off meetings. Offer your card with both hands while facing your colleague. Do not make a brief exchange or slide your card across the table.
During the meeting, the most senior person will lead discussions and the other members of his party may not say a word. Do the same and have the most senior member of your team participate in discussions.
When entering a meeting room, you should sit across from your counterpart with a similar level of experience. Your younger staffers should not sit across from senior team members.
If youre invited for a meal by your host, try to eat a bit of everything and show that you like. If there are certain types of food you dont like or cant eat, let your host know before they choose the restaurant or the meal. They like to hear that you like their food. And get ready, the Japanese love to drink alcohol during and after the meal. If you do not drink, for whatever reason, be prepared to explain it several times. Your host will insist that you drink, so try not to be angry with the insistence.
