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Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

The Importance of Cross-Cultural Business Communications

In today’s global business marketplace, the ability to communicate effectively multi-culturally cannot be underestimated. I found this out very quickly when I started teaching cross-cultural education in Geneva, Switzerland in the early nineties. My education was in Behavioral Science and Cultural Science however, I didn’t expect that there would be specific things about me that would have a negative impact. I had 3 strikes. I was American, so what could an American teach them about culture? I was female, and in the early nineties business women were much less common. I was blonde, and I quickly found out the dumb blonde jokes were global! I decided that I needed to adapt my image to fit their expectations. I adopted what I now call my ‘librarian look’, which consisted of the IBM classic colored suits with long skirts, my hair in a French twist and high heels since I’m short. For a group of senior bankers in Zurich, I even wore fake eyeglasses! I also changed my communication style to be more factual and direct and to the point. I smiled less, minimized my tonal modulations, and was less demonstrative in my body language, gestures and facial expressions.

Common cross-cultural issues for business owners developing relationships with businesses and individuals from different cultural backgrounds

Not being proactive and adapting to different cultural business expectations. It’s all too easy to get off on the wrong foot and become reactive.

Not understanding how formality, hierarchy and timing can affect business. These things have a tremendous impact on negotiations and decision-making.

Being perceived as too aggressive or even inpatient in our business approach. Business often takes longer with different cultures and countries, so plan accordingly.

Many cultures are more team focused or ‘we’ oriented. This can really impact our business style and marketing material. Avoid being egocentric or ‘I’ oriented.

A big Taboo is unintentionally offending someone with our body language. This can be very difficult to recover from. A basic guideline is to use ‘opened handed’ gestures. Don’t point with your index finger, use the OK sign or thumbs up and thumbs down.

How can you proactively prepare for multi-cultural business?

Awareness is the 1st step! Observe how people communicate with you in person, on the phone and by email. Notice if they more formal and expressive or more direct and to the point.

Know your facts. Be aware of relevant historical data, economic issues, major industries, cities and geography to name a few. There is nothing more embarrassing than not knowing your geography!

Learn some cultural rapport skills about what is important. For example, when Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah visited President Bush at his Crawford ranch, they were photographed strolling hand in hand through the bluebonnets. This was an important sign of their friendship and trust. Sometimes, you need to go beyond your personal comfort zone!

Keep in mind that we are homogenizing as a global culture, so with all we learn we can’t ever take cultural tendencies for granted.

5 Keys to successful cross-cultural communications for your business partnerships

1. Be proactive. Initially focus on creating trustful partnerships not on the business at hand.
2. Use some cultural rapport. Adapt your marketing material and business approach as needed.
3. Organize productive interactions that insure a ‘win-win’ for all parties.
4. Develop strategies for relationships and business cycles based on appropriate levels of formality, business hierarchy and timing.
5. Success leaves clues! Learn the Do’s & Taboos of the country and cultures you partner with. Be well prepared.

Bon Voyage… Cheers to a successful cross-cultural business!

A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z will return next month.

DENMARK will be the featured country

www.gaylecotton.com

Knowing the communication styles, business strategies and approaches to multi-cultural etiquette can be the difference between success and failure when working or negotiating internationally. Learn to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad.

Circles Of Excellence offers Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies

Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe

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Cross-Cultural Articles & Global Travel Tips

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Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Communication Guidelines for Columbia

It’s an asset to make the effort to learn Colombian history and culture before your visit. Having a basic knowledge of these subjects will do a great deal in establishing rapport.

In general, Colombians are very proud of their culture and national accomplishments.

It is considered polite to maintain close eye contact during conversations.

Ensure that you take safety precautions when in Colombia. Ask your counterparts what areas of the city are dangerous. Be aware that both the murder rate and frequency of kidnapping is significantly high.

The formality of inland Colombians extends to their mannerisms; they do not like to engage in expansive gestures and animation. Residents of the coastal regions tend to be more expressive and less formal.

The standard greeting is the handshake upon introduction and departure.

Among close friends, women may clasp forearms or kiss each other on one cheek. Men embrace and slap each other’s back. This particular hug is known as the “abrazo.”

Colombians typically ask numerous polite questions and go through other pleasantries. Expect inquiries as to your health, your trip, your family, and any friends or acquaintances you have in common. It is considered callous and disrespectful to rush a greeting.

Colombians are not known for punctuality. They may arrive at a business meeting 15 or 20 minutes late, since this is considered the norm.

Selecting representatives from your company is probably the most crucial decision you can make before entering into business with Colombians. They will want to get to know your representatives personally and establish a warm rapport and comradeship.

Colombians make decisions on the basis of feelings, rather than empirical evidence and other facts. This can be true even if you present them with an enticing deal and a “bottom line” that seems sure to be profitable.

The importance of hierarchy should never be underestimated in Colombian business culture. Nevertheless, subordinates within the group, as well as underlying circumstances, also have some influence in the decision-making process.

Before the meeting begins, there is always some preliminary “small talk.” Small talk is necessary, since it conveys to your peers that the personal rapport that you have established with them is a higher priority than just doing business. In most cases, you should wait for your Colombian associates to initiate the business discussion.

When the meeting is over, stay a little bit longer and continue chatting with your colleagues. It’s actually considered an insult in this culture to leave immediately after a meeting because it suggests that you have better things to do.

As a follow-up to your meeting, it is a good idea to send a brief thank-you note, as well as minutes, that is, a written confirmation of what was discussed.

Inland Colombians are probably the most formal and traditional of Latin Americans. Only along the coast is a more relaxed attitude the norm.

Welcome Topics of Conversation 

• Positive aspects of Colombia, including their wonderful coffee and cuisine.
• Colombian history, literature, art, and music.
• The lush Colombian landscape, mountains and coastlines.
• Your home country and the region you are from.
• Family discussions are appropriate when initially building rapport.

Conversation to Avoid 

• Avoid mentioning anything about drug traffic or illegal cartels.
• Don’t make negative remarks about bullfighting.
• Avoid talking about differences between the Columbian culture and yours.
• Avoid any discussion around terrorism, politics and religion.
• Avoid making complaints of any kind.

Bon Voyage! 

Join us in the future for Denmark! 

Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert

www.gaylecotton.com 

Knowing the communication styles, business strategies and approaches to multi-cultural etiquette can be the difference between success and failure when working or negotiating internationally. Learn to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad. 

Circles Of Excellence offers Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies 

Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe 

Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers

www.circlesofexcellence.com

US: 972-370-1300 

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Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Communication Guidelines for China

Before your visit, it is a good idea to prepare yourself by studying aspects of Chinese culture, history and geography. Your hosts will appreciate your initiative.

When scheduling your appointments, be sensitive to holidays such as the Chinese New Year, which changes yearly, as many businesses will be closed.

Being late for an appointment is considered an insult in Chinese business culture.

Since there is such a strong emphasis on hierarchy in the Chinese culture, ensure that you bring a senior member of your organization to lead the discussions. The Chinese will do the same.

In accordance with Chinese business protocol, people are expected to enter the meeting room in hierarchical order. For example, the Chinese will assume that the first foreigner to enter the room is head of the delegation and will acknowledge the most senior person first. Watch and do the same.

The Chinese will nod or bow slightly as an initial greeting. Handshakes are also popular however, so wait for your Chinese counterpart to initiate the gesture.

The Chinese are very keen about exchanging business cards. Be sure to bring a plentiful supply. Ensure that one side is in English and the other is in Chinese.

It’s an asset to have your business cards printed in gold ink. In Chinese business culture, gold is the color of prestige, prosperity.

Present your card with two hands and the Chinese side facing the recipient.

When receiving a business card, examine it carefully for a few moments, and then place it into your card case or on the table. Not reading a business card or stuffing it directly into your back pocket will be a breach of protocol.

The Chinese do not use many gestures when speaking and will become annoyed with a speaker who does. Emotion is repressed so avoid excessive facial expressions.

The Chinese will not directly say “no” to you. Instead, ambivalent answers such as “perhaps”, “I’m not sure”, “I’ll think about it”, or “We’ll see” usually mean “no.”

“Small talk” is considered especially important at the beginning of a meeting.

The question “Have you eaten?” is the equivalent to “How are you?”. Simply answer, “yes”, even if you haven’t actually eaten.

Use your whole hand rather than your index finger to point.

Welcome Topics of Conversation

•  The Chinese scenery and landmarks
•  The weather, climate and geography in China
•  Your positive experiences traveling in China and your travels in other countries
•  Inquiries about family, especially children (but don’t probe)
•  Chinese art and culture

Conversation to Avoid

•  Avoid mentioning Taiwan. If the subject comes up, never refer to this country as “The Republic of China” or “Nationalist China.” The correct term is “Taiwan Province”, or just “Taiwan.”
•  Refrain from using the terms such as “Red China”, “Mainland China,” and “Communist China.”
•  Don’t say anything that could be considered insulting as it will cause “loss of face” and could damage the relationship.”Saving face” is an important concept to understand.
• Avoid any discussion around communism and the government.
• Avoid discussing anything that would cause the Chinese to feel inferior in any way.

Bon Voyage!

 Join us in the future for Columbia!

Author: Gayle Cotton, Emmy Award Winner & Keynote Speaker

www.circlesofexcellence.com/about-gayle-cotton

Knowing the communication styles, business strategies and approaches to multi-cultural etiquette can be the difference between success and failure when working or negotiating internationally. Learn to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad.

Circles Of Excellence offers Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies

Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe  

Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers

www.circlesofexcellence.com

US: 972-370-1300 

Tags: business management abroad, circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, communicating in China, conversation guidelines for China, cross cultural business, cultural taboos, cultural tips for countries, culture shock, doing business in China, global business marketplace, international sales and negotiations, multi cultural Communication, understanding cultural differences, understanding the Chinese culture

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Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Communication Guidelines for Chili

Chileans are a very patriotic people and will likely take offense at negative comments of any kind directed at their country.

It’s a mistake to compare Chile to Argentina because there has been a great deal of conflict between them.

In conversation, try to deflect attention from yourself. The best strategy is to display a genuine interest in others.

Initially, focus on questions related to the Chilean’s interests such as sports, travel or culture rather than on personal questions.

Chileans perceive interruptions as a way of participating in conversations, and displaying interest in what is being said. If you are interrupted, there is no need to take offense.

Remember that Chileans tend to have an inherent sense of courtesy that sometimes causes them to say what they think they want you to hear, rather than give a candid response.

Personal honor is very important to Latin American businesspeople. Refrain from publicly criticizing or patronizing others, or doing anything else that might create embarrassment.

South Americans generally converse in closer proximity than North Americans so do your best to adapt to this practice. It may be taken personally if you back away from someone.

Note that as friendships develop and solidify, handshakes are often followed by enthusiastic kissing, hugging and back patting. When you are in these situations, follow the lead of your Chilean counterparts as they may take offense if you pull away.

If you need to point, use the index finger. Pointing at other people, however, is often considered rude.

Chili can be a somewhat formal country. Third party introductions, through institutions such as banks and consulting firms, are often a necessary prelude to conducting business in Chile.

Chilean business culture has a definite hierarchical order, and you will be expected to defer to the most senior person present. Observe the “chain of command”.

Welcome Topics of Conversation

•  The positive aspects of Chilean history and current economy.
•  Sports are an excellent topic. Popular sports include skiing and fishing.
•  Chilean culture, art and literature are excellent topics. Learn something about this in advance of your visit.
•  Chili’s beautiful geography, landscape, lakes and vineyards.
•  Inquiries about family, especially children (but don’t probe)
•  Food and wine are always good topics. Chili has marvelous wine, and is very proud of it and the industry it has created.

Conversation to Avoid

• Don’t Criticize any aspect of Chili, even if your Chilean companions make these kinds of remarks
• It’s best not to mention the countries surrounding Chile – Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. There is a lot of competition between them
• Don’t discuss human rights violations and the Araucanian Indians.
• Any discussion around ethnic and social classes or religion.
• Avoid bring up wars and politics involving Chili.

 Bon Voyage!

 Join us in the future for China!

Author: Gayle Cotton, Emmy Award Winner & Keynote Speaker

www.circlesofexcellence.com/about-gayle-cotton

 Knowing the communication styles, business strategies and approaches to multi-cultural etiquette can be the difference between success and failure when working or negotiating internationally. Learn to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad.

 Circles Of Excellence offers Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies

 Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe  

 Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers

www.circlesofexcellence.com US: 972-370-1300 

Tags: business management abroad, circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, communicating in Chili, conversation guidelines for Chili, cross cultural business, cultural taboos, cultural tips for countries, culture shock, doing business in Chili, global business marketplace, international sales and negotiations, multi cultural Communication, understanding Chilean culture, understanding cultural differences

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Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Communication Guidelines for Canada

Punctuality should always be a priority. Be on time for all business-related meetings.

Remember that people in many countries write the day first, then the month, then the year (e.g. November 8, 2001, is written 8.11.01). This is usually the case in Canada.

Canada is officially bilingual. The federal government works in the two official languages – English and French.

Canadians who are primarily English-speaking are commonly referred to as “Anglophones.” Since many English-speaking Canadians are not of British descent, reserve the term “British Canadian” for immigrants to Canada from the U.K.

English speaking Canada uses British spelling rules rather than that of US English. Behavior, for instance, is spelled ‘Behaviour’.

Francophones in French Speaking Canada (Quebec and parts of eastern Canada) usually are not as reserved as Anglophones (British Columbia and parts of western Canada). Moreover, they are often more likely to use expansive gestures, stand closer while talking and touch during a conversation.

In the province of Quebec, there are very stringent French-language requirements for all commercial endeavors. Ensure that you provide a French translation for promotional material and other documents.

Generally, it’s an asset to include both French and English translations on your business card.

Canada is a multicultural society, and the customs of businesspeople may reflect their ethnic background.

If you need to point, use the index finger. Pointing at other people, however, is often considered rude.

Canada is a very open society, exercising maximum social tolerance. Boasting and ostentation, however, tends to be frowned upon or at least regarded with some misgivings.

Although they are not overtly nationalistic “flag wavers”, Canadians usually hope that visitors will recognize and appreciate the many unique attributes that make their country distinct from the United States.

Welcome Topics of Conversation

• Positive comments about Canada and Canadians, both French speaking and English speaking.
• Sports are an excellent topic. Popular sports include hockey, football, baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis
• International Business. Canada has very diverse cultures and trade.
• The beautiful geography. Canada is an extraordinarily beautiful country with mountains, rivers, lakes and fabulous formal gardens. There is an old European style to the architecture, English on the west coast and French on the east coast.
• Travel of all sorts, especially international
• Shopping and fashion. Canada has excellent shopping in the larger cities, both on the east and west coasts. Many things can be purchased there that are not available in the US, especially in the larger cities.
• Cultural of all types. The coasts of Canada have remained true to the European appreciation of the Arts.

Conversation to Avoid

• Making comparisons that emphasizes any inferiority or similarity to the U.S.
• Quebec separatism or other possible conflicts between French and English Canada.
• Comparisons between the Canadian and US Health Care Systems or medical insurance.
• Any inferiority of the Canadian dollar in comparison to the US dollar.
• Religion in general, although Canada is very tolerant of most religions.

Bon Voyage!

Join us in the future for Chili…

Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert

www.circlesofexcellence.com/about-gayle-cotton

Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Learn to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad.

www.circlesofexcellence.com

Circles Of Excellence provides Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies

Tags: business management abroad, circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, communicating in Canada, conversation guidelines for Canada, cross cultural business, cultural taboos, cultural tips for countries, culture shock, doing business in Canada, global business marketplace, international sales and negotiations, multi cultural Communication, understanding Canadian culture, understanding cultural differences

Brazilians conduct business mainly through personal connections. There must also be an understanding that the business relationship will be long-term.

Before putting the resources into a trip, hire a Brazilian contact in your industry that can help you make the right connections. You can find such a person (known in Portuguese as a “despachante”) through the U.S. Department of Commerce, the American Chamber of Commerce in Brazil, or an international organization to which you may already belong.

Flexible punctuality is characteristic of Brazilian business culture. You will have to accept that waiting for your Brazilian counterparts will be part of doing business here.

Portuguese is the dominant language in Brazil. Be aware that Brazilians do not perceive themselves as Hispanics, and will only take offense if addressed in Spanish.

Brazilians usually greet each other with long handshakes and noticeable eye contact; close friends will often embrace. They tend to stand close together when talking.

Women will often greet each other by touching cheek to cheek and kissing the air.

Brazilians use many gestures, however The “O.K.” sign (using your first finger and thumb to form a circle) is considered vulgar so avoid using it.

As in many Latin and South American countries, Brazilians also consider themselves ‘Americans’. Consequently, don’t use the phrase “in America” or “American” when referring to the United States.

Brazilians tend to be very fast talkers; expect any conversation to be fast-paced and often animated and demonstrative.

Use your whole hand when you feel the need to point at something, since using the forefinger may be considered rude.

Maintain steady eye contact at all times; it is considered rude to break eye contact in conversation.

 Welcome Topics of Conversation

• The part of Brazil you are currently visiting, as well as your travels in other parts of Brazil. Brazil is a very large, diverse country with lots to see.
• Brazil is famous for its special cuts of grilled meats. It also has some wonderful wines. Discussing food is a topic all will enjoy!
• The innovative and productive aspects of Brazilian industry and business.
• Brazilians are enthusiastic “futebol” (soccer) fans and this subject usually stimulates a lively conversation. Other popular sports include basketball, fishing, horse racing, tennis and volleyball.
• Brazilians love to dance! Dance and other aspects of the country’s arts and culture are always good topics to discuss.

Conversation to Avoid

• Ethnic and class differences or any jokes about them. Class (in economic terms) and status are a major influence in this society and often determine the type of job a person will have. The assumption that the powerful are entitled to special privileges, however, is starting to be questioned. 
• Brazils’ economic challenges, whether past or present.
• Argentina, Brazil’s largest business rival. 
• Criticism of any aspect of Brazil will find disfavor.
• Too many personal questions, particularly those regarding family, income and status in the workplace. Brazilians tend to be very reticent about discussing their private lives.

Bon Voyage!

Join us in the future for Canada…

Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert

www.circlesofexcellence.com/about-gayle-cotton

Contact us to help your business become more successful in today’s Global Business Marketplace. Lean to manage ‘culture shock’ and improve your Multi-Cultural Communication. We can assist with all aspects of international sales and negotiations or business management abroad.

CIRCLES OF EXCELLENCE INC

www.circlesofexcellence.com

Circles Of Excellence provides Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Train The Trainer Programs, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies

Tags: business management abroad, circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, communicating in Brazil, conversation guidelines for Brazil, cross cultural business, cultural taboos, cultural tips for countries, culture shock, doing business in Brazil, global business marketplace, international sales and negotiations, multi cultural Communication, understanding Brazilian culture, understanding cultural differences

Belgium is the Government seat of the European Union (EU).

Always keep in mind that there are three linguistic groups in Belgium: German, French, and Flemish. The Flemish language is a variant of Dutch.

With French speakers, use courtesy titles such as “Monsieur”, “Madame”, or “Mademoiselle.”

When addressing German or Flemish speakers, use Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. Never use “Madame” or “Monsieur” when addressing a Flemish speaker.

Appointments are punctual and usually, first appointments are socially oriented. Most Belgians feel that it’s necessary to get to know you before proceeding with business of any kind.

Typically, Belgians shake hands with everyone in the room or office upon meeting and departure.

When you are among the French-speaking Belgians, you may observe closer acquaintances greeting each other with alternating kisses on the cheeks. And it’s common for men who know each other particularly well to embrace.

Avoid excessive gesturing. It’s better to appear more formal and restrained.

Use your whole hand when you feel the need to point at something, since using the forefinger is considered rude.

Patting someone on the back is considered unacceptable. Yawning in public is considered rude. Talking with your hands in your pockets is perceived as a sign of bad manners.

Welcome Topics of Conversation

• The area of Belgium you are currently visiting, as well as your travels in other parts of Belgium.
• The food and beer you have sampled during your stay in various areas. Comment specifically on the food and beer from French Belgium, Flanders or Wallonia when in those areas. Show appreciation of their distinctly different restaurants
• The beauty of the architecture of Belgium’s cities and local sites, as well as their historical art is always a good topic. Brugge is a well known mid-evil city that has canals similar to Venice.
• All sports, especially bicycling and soccer
• Be sure to speak in a moderate tone at all times, regardless of the topic you are discussing. Expressing too much excitement or animation is usually frowned upon

Conversation to Avoid

• Politics is best to avoid.
• Discussing a preference for the different languages spoken in Belgium
• Making jokes about the Flemish to the French or French-Speaking Walloons, and vice versa
• In general, Belgians never discuss personal subjects except with close friends. Because of their private nature, Belgians don’t usually discuss money matters outside of business. 
• Make an effort not to confuse their three cultural groups and their languages.

Talking too much about your education, professional experience, business success, and related achievements may be considered a boosting.

Bon Voyage!

Join us in the future for Brazil…

Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert

www.circlesofexcellence.com/about-gayle-cotton

CIRCLES OF EXCELLENCE INC

www.circlesofexcellence.com 

Tags: circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, communicating in Belgium, conversation guidelines for Belgium, cross cultural business, cultural taboos, cultural tips for countries, doing business in Belgium, understanding Belgium culture, understanding cultural differences

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 A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Some Conversation Guidelines for Austria

Austrian business is based on respect, conservatism, courtesy and formality. Dress professionally. Shake hands when arriving and departing.

Displaying knowledge of Austrian history and culture demonstrates an awareness of the uniqueness of Austria. They may take offense against anyone who fails to recognize the clear distinction between them and the Germans.

The only thing that is truly German about Austria is the language and, even then, Austrian German is very different from standard or High German (Hochdeutsch) in vocabulary, idioms, and pronunciation. Mostly German and some English is spoken for business.

In business, courtesy titles Herr (‘Mr.’), Frau (‘Mrs.’) or Fräulein (‘Miss’) followed by the surname should be used until invited to do otherwise. ‘Ms.’ has no direct German translation. Educational titles are also widely used.

 Austrians expect you to mean what you say and say what you mean. Do not make idle promises during conversation. Austrians have a great sense of humor, and they will accept your joking so long as you are self-deprecating at the same time. However, humor has no place at a formal meeting or in the office where senior staff is present.

Austrians plan their schedules weeks, even months in advance and try to follow what they have pre-arranged on their calendars.

Austrians are scrupulously punctual and expect others to observe the same courtesy at all times.

Welcome Topics of Conversation 

• Austrian culture, theatre and music, especially classical music are favorite topics. Haydn, Mozart, Schubert, Johann Strauss, Bruckner, Schönberg and Berg were all Austrian.
• Opera is a great love, especially that of Mozart and Richard Strauss, even though Strauss was born in Munich.
• The beauty of the architecture of Austria’s cities and local sites, as well as their historical art is always a good topic. Vienna is known as ‘the city of music’.
• Your international travel to other countries is also of interest.
• Discussing Austrian winter sports is always well received.
• Austrian food is appreciated with gusto, has a noted distinction from the typical German food. Show appreciation of their distinct restaurants, beer and wines.
• Austrian traditions are uniquely Austrian. Appreciate the distinctions.

Conversation to Avoid

• World War II and Austria’s role in the war can still be a sensitive topic.
• Anything that leads to a discussion around Anti-Semitism should be avoided.
• The Austrian religion is predominately Catholic, so different religious view aren’t usually discussed.
• Austrians are a rather private culture, so talk about separation and divorce is usually avoided. Because of their private nature, Austrians don’t usually discuss money matters outside of business.
 • Austrian hospitality is warm with a degree of formality. It is an honor to be invited to an Austrian’s home. Dress well and bring a gift.
•Talking too much about your education, professional experience, business success, and related achievements may be considered a boosting.

Bon Voyage! Join us in the future for Belgium

Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe.  

 972-370-1300

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 Some Conversation Guidelines for Argentina 

Expect Argentines to speak Castilian Spanish with an Italian accent rather than the Mexican dialect of Spanish.

Argentines like to engage in “small talk.” Generally, they are very sociable and take a genuine interest in Argentine cultural affairs.

Try not to take offense if people make jokes at your expense, even if remarks are directed at your weight or other aspects of your appearance. This kind of comment is actually a sign that your Argentine companions are comfortable around you.

Women, in particular, may be asked personal questions, for example, their marital status and weight. Try to give a discreet reply. If you absolutely don’t want to answer, remain polite and gracefully side step the question.

Many Argentines actually like getting into discussions about politics and religion, however as a visitor, it will be in your best interests not to get involved.

Avoid discussing the war in the Falkland Islands, since this is an episode that the Argentines would prefer to leave behind. If the subject does come up, the islands should be referred to by their Argentine name: The Malvinas Islands. 

Welcome Topics of Conversation

• Argentine art
• Sports, such as futbol (soccer). U.S. style football is called “futbol americano”
• The area of Argentina you’re visiting
• Your international travels
• Restaurants, food and wine in Argentina
• The beauty of local parks and gardens
• Theater, movies and opera in Argentina
• Compliments are welcome!

Conversation to Avoid

• Criticizing or joking about Argentine culture and traditions
• Personal questions and inquiries about family until you have become better acquainted with them.
• Praising Argentina’s neighbors, particularly Chile. Argentina has fought wars with all of neighboring countries.
• Negative comments about Argentina’s government, cities, or Argentina’s sports teams
• Religion in Argentin
• Political opinions in Argentina

Bon Voyage!

Join us in the future for Australia…

Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe.  

972-370-1300

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 Cultural Clues… Do’s & Taboos

 A series of cultural tips for countries from A to Z

Some Conversation Guidelines for Australia

Australians tend to be enthusiastic conversationalists and debaters. A wide range of topics may be open to discussion.

Australians try not to draw too much attention to their academic qualifications, at least in public. People who make a lot of references to their education and other professional qualifications in conversation may be subject to teasing.

Don’t boast about yourself or your company’s accomplishments. Instead, Australians will judge your competence and abilities through your actions.

Australians find strong discussions and opinionated conversation entertaining, so don’t hesitate to express your views if they are sincere and informed.

Australians may like to poke fun at or criticize themselves, but they are not as receptive to criticism from others.

Australians are difficult to impress and even if you do manage to impress them, they may not openly admit it.

Point with your entire hand; pointing at someone with your index finger may be considered impolite.

Australian hospitality tends to be somewhat informal, particularly when you are invited to a home. Barbecues, affectionately known as, “barbies”, are a very popular form of home entertaining.

Welcome Topics of Conversation 

• Unlike some countries, Australians are open to discuss religion, politics and even the Australian government.
• Australian traditions and sports are always great topics.
• Discuss something about the area of Australia you’re visiting. Australians are very proud of their country. Know the landmarks.
• Your international travels to other countries is always of interest
• The beauty of the cities, local sites, gardens, coastlines (the Gold Coast is famous) and the Outback if you get a chance to visit.
• Australian food; restaurants, beer and wine. Australia has excellent food!
• Australian culture in general; theater, movies and opera
• Compliments are welcome!

Conversation to Avoid

• Criticizing or joking about Australia, its culture and traditions or other Australians, even if your Australian companions are doing so.
• Ethnic relations as it relates to the history of the Aborigines
• Talking too much about your education, professional experience, business success, and related achievements may be considered a boosting.
• Australians are often distrustful of authority and of people who think that they are somehow “better” than others. Remain modest in conversation.
 • If you are invited out for a drink, don’t bring up the subject of business unless your host does so.

Bon Voyage! Join us in the future for Austria…

Circles Of Excellence provides their services globally from locations in the US and Europe. 

 972-370-1300

Tags: arustralian hospitality, australian culture, australian food, australian government, australian politics, australian traditions, circlesofexcellence.com, communicating across cultures, cross cultural business, understanding cultural differences