Business Class

To be competitive in today’s international market, understanding different cultures is more important than ever—especially when you’re conducting business abroad.

A few years ago, my boss and I traveled frequently to Hong Kong for business, and we adopted several Chinese customs.

The Chinese typically shake hands, but their handshake isn’t as firm as Westerners’, and they tend to lower their eyes as a sign of respect. They also exchange business cards differently. I offered my card using both hands, printed side facing the recipient. I accepted cards with both hands, too, and took extra time to review the cards as a sign of respect.

We gave small presents wrapped in red or gold, considered lucky colors, and my boss always looked for items that could be given in the quantity of eight, a number considered auspicious.

When dining, our hosts ordered a wide variety of Chinese delicacies (one time as many as 15 courses). Fortunately, I enjoy unusual foods, and I can use chopsticks. My former boss wasn’t so lucky. He couldn’t use chopsticks and was squeamish at the sight of shark’s fin soup and jellyfish. It would have been rude to turn away any foods served, so he had to try one of everything.

There are several Web sites that offer basic multicultural education, including www.culturegrams.com, with cultural reports on more than 200 countries, and www.kwintessential.co.uk, loaded with facts, statistics and etiquette guidelines. I recommend visiting such sites before your next business trip abroad. Knowing other cultures’ protocols can give you confidence in unfamiliar territory and boost the respect you receive from international colleagues.