Circles of Excellence http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog Sun, 13 May 2012 11:00:02 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos: Communication Guidelines for MALAYSIA flagssm

The Latest! Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos - A Series of Cultural Tips for Countries from A to Z: MALAYSIA Most businesspeople should be addressed with a name and title. If a person does not have a professional title (Professor or Doctor) you may use courtesy titles such as "Mr." or "Ms.", plus the name. This is less important with younger businesspeople. Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy of nine royal houses. Foreigners are likely to encounter one of them eventually. Ask a native how a particular royal should be addressed. Although most Malaysians are Muslim, not all of Malaysia follows the traditional Islamic working week in which Friday is the Islamic holy day and the weekend takes place on Thursday and Friday. Five Malaysian states follow the Islamic workweek of Saturday through Wednesday. These include Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, and Johore. The Malaysian capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is in the state of Selangor, where the working week is Monday through Friday. Since most of the country is Muslim, it is helpful to schedule meetings around prayer times. Friday at noon is a particularly busy time for prayers. The majority of Malaysian businesspeople are Chinese, and you can expect them to be punctual. Most government officials are ethnic Malays who have more of a relaxed attitude toward time. Business travelers are expected to be on time, although ethnic Malaysian may not necessarily do the same. The Indian’s perspective on time is similar to that of the Malays. However, the Indian professionals you may encounter will expect punctuality. Alcohol will not be served at any social event hosted by observant Muslims. Expect that meals will be served close to the time given on the invitation. With the exception of handshakes, there is no public contact between the sexes in Malaysia. Hugging and kissing, even between husbands and wives, is forbidden in public. Physical contact between the same sex is perfectly acceptable. Men may be holding hands with men or even walking with their arms around each other. These actions are interpreted as gestures of friendship. When you are being introduced to a Malaysian woman, shake hands with her only if she has extended her hand. If she does not extend her hand just smile and a nod to greet her. When introducing a man and a woman, the female's name should be said first .As in many other countries, when presenting a higher-ranking person to a more junior person, the senior person's name is said first. Out of deference, give a slight bow to elderly people you are introduced to. Keep your hands out of your pockets when in public. When exiting a room, say "Excuse me" and add a slight bow. When you must indicate something or someone, use the entire right hand (palm out). You can also point with your right thumb, as long as all four fingers are curled down. It is considered rude to point at anyone with the forefinger. Malaysians use the forefinger only to point at animals. When passing an object, reaching for something or touching someone, do so with your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean. Feet are also believed to be unclean. Never point your feet at another person. Apologize whenever your shoes or feet touch another person. Don't show the soles of your feet or shoes. You may cross your legs at the knee, but not place one ankle on your knee.   5 Key Topics to Use in Conversation
  • Your Malaysian host's family, heritage and culture
  • Business and plans for the future
  • Praising the local cuisine
  • Malaysian culture, art and music
  • Sports, especially soccer which they call ‘football’
  5 Keys Topics to Avoid in Conversation
  • Criticizing any aspect of Malaysian culture
  • Comparing life in Malaysia to life in the West
  • Politics, bureaucracy and religion
  • Ethnic relations in Malaysia and in general
  • Sex and roles of the sexes
  Bon Voyage! Join us in the future for MEXICO!   Contact Us for More Information! Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers www.circlesofexcellence.com Cross-Cultural Articles & Global Travel Tips www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog US: 972-370-1300 Contact Circles Of Excellence for your company’s Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies. Our topics include Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communications, Customer Service, Diversity, Leadership & Management, Presentation Skills, Sales & Negotiations, Stress Management, Team Building and Time Management. Contact EMMY AWARD WINNER, Gayle Cotton for your next meeting or conference to help your business become more successful in today’s global business environment. Gayle is President of Circles Of Excellence for Corporate Training & Executive Coaching. She travels worldwide as a distinguished Professional Keynote Speaker. Her vast experience living and working abroad will entertain and inspire any audience with her fresh, unique and humorous approach to Cross-Cultural Communications! Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert www.gaylecotton.com Visit Gayle Cotton’s Blog for additional Cross-Cultural Articles! www.gaylecotton.com/blog ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/05/cultural-clues-do%e2%80%99s-taboos-communication-guidelines-for-malaysia/ Circles Of Excellence launches a new Time Management Training Program entitled ‘1440 Minutes… Use It or Lose it!’ TM-big watch

Circles Of Excellence launches a new Time Management Training Program entitled ‘1440 Minutes… Use It or Lose it!' Time is like a bank, but who manages the ‘Time Bank’? Is it you, or is it time? Everyone gets the same 60 seconds a minute, 60 minutes an hour, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year. Every morning we are credited with 480 minutes in an 8-hour work day, and 1,440 minutes every 24 hours. Each night what we don’t invest in productive time management is written off as a loss! Learn how to gain effectiveness in better managing yourself and your precious credit of daily minutes. Our time management training courses will help you better understand how to manage yourself, and develop productive time management strategies to maximize your time. Contact Us for More Information Coming soon this month on the Circles Of Excellence Blog Watch for our new Article: Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos for MALAYSIA Blog: www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog Website: www.circlesofexcellence.com Coming soon this month on Gayle Cotton’s Blog Watch for Gayle’s newArticle: Cultural Clues, Do’s& Taboos for DENMARK]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/05/circles-of-excellence-launches-a-new-time-management-training-program-entitled-%e2%80%981440-minutes%e2%80%a6-use-it-or-lose-it/ Events for Circles Of Excellence: May 2012 IAHP-sign

The Main Event! Customer Appreciation: The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential The Institute hosts a week of special events being held in celebration of the 25th Anniversary of The Institutes in Europe. The celebration will be held at their European Villa in Fauglia, Pisa, Italy. Contact Us for More Information ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/04/events-for-circles-of-excellence-may-2012/ Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos: Communication Guidelines for JORDAN flagssm

The Latest! Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos - A Series of Cultural Tips for Countries from A to Z: JORDAN
Being on time for appointments is one thing that Jordanians admire in westerners. So, it is helpful for you to do so. However, it is typical of Jordanians to be around a half hour late.
During the month of Ramadan, business hours are shortened and work ends about two or three in the afternoon.
Jordanians normally mix personal conversation with business. A little personal conversation will help with the relationship building.
A loud voice may be considered domineering so don’t speak overly loud. Jordanians can be emotional in their conversation so you can show some emotion, just don't raise your voice when you do.
It is quite normal to talk about money, wages, how and how much you pay for things as well as how old you are. However, it is considered impolite to discuss your relationship with your spouse.
Compliment giving is like entertainment, a source of pride, and done with good sportsmanship. Giving compliments is an important part of relationship building.
Avoid derogatory humor, even with friends. Personal put-downs, criticism and sarcasm are not well accepted.
Avoid making comments on current political events. The perspectives of the east and the west can be very divisive.
Honor is very important in the Jordanian culture. Questioning the honor of someone is a sure way to destroy the relationship.
Lots of titles are used. Social standing is based on the level of education, age, military rank, tribal position and political office.
Negotiating a deal is one of the things Jordanians love most. It is like a sport and they thoroughly enjoy it. Have fun at it too! One of their mottos is, “Everything is always negotiable”.
Your first meeting should start with full introductions and exchange of business cards. Every other meeting should also include greetings. This is an important part of relationship building and the foundation of business. \
Business moves at different speeds, it can be quite slow or very fast depending on the situation. Excessive stalling is a polite way of saying that there is no interest in continuing the business discussion.
Jordanians stand closer than most westerners are used to. Stand about half the distance apart as you typical would in western cultures.
Patting or holding the arm or shoulder can be a sign of affection, acceptance, or an offer of assistance. Holding hands indicates emotional attachment and is appropriate in same sex relationships like a 'father and son' or brothers.   5 Key Topics to Use in Conversation
  • Sincere personal compliments
  • Praising the Jordanian hospitality
  • Social conversation on topics of mutual interest and vision
  • History, language, culture, art, music
  • Sports, especially soccer which they call ‘football’
  5 Keys Topics to Avoid in Conversation
  • Current events and politics
  • Religious preferences
  • Eastern versus western philosophies
  • Anything that negatively affects personal honor and pride
  • Criticism of any type
Bon Voyage!
Join us in the future for MALAYSIA!
Contact Us for More Information!
Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers
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US: 972-370-1300
Contact Circles Of Excellence for your company’s Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies. Our topics include Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communications, Customer Service, Diversity, Leadership & Management, Presentation Skills, Sales & Negotiations, Stress Management, Team Building and Time Management. Contact EMMY AWARD WINNER, Gayle Cotton for your next meeting or conference to help your business become more successful in today’s global business environment. Gayle is President of Circles Of Excellence for Corporate Training & Executive Coaching. She travels worldwide as a distinguished Professional Keynote Speaker. Her vast experience living and working abroad will entertain and inspire any audience with her fresh, unique and humorous approach to Cross-Cultural Communications!
Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert
www.gaylecotton.com
Visit Gayle Cotton’s Blog for additional Cross-Cultural Articles!
www.gaylecotton.com/blog
]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/04/cultural-clues-do%e2%80%99s-taboos-communication-guidelines-for-jordan/ Gayle Cotton to publish the book, ‘Say Anything to Anyone, Anywhere!’ Book-Reading

Circles Of Excellence congratulates Gayle Cotton on her contract to publish the book, ‘Say Anything to Anyone, Anywhere!’ with Wiley Publishers.   Her book will be available in bookstores and all online outlets in March 2013. We wish Gayle the best of luck with her new book!   Contact Us for More Information Coming soon this month on the Circles Of Excellence Blog Watch for our new Article: Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos for JORDAN Blog: www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog Website: www.circlesofexcellence.com Coming soon this month on Gayle Cotton’s Blog Watch for Gayle’s new Article: Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos for the CZECH REPUBLIC ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/04/gayle-cotton-to-publish-the-book-%e2%80%98say-anything-to-anyone-anywhere%e2%80%99/ Events for Circles Of Excellence: April 2012 US Concrete

The Main Event! New CustomerAppreciation: US CONCRETE       Executive Coaching programs for Cross-Cultural and Cultural Diversity Training, Interpersonal Communication Skills Training, Executive Leadership Skills Training, Teambuilding Training and Customer Service Training programs   Contact Us for More Information ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/04/events-for-circles-of-excellence-april-2012/ Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos: Communication Guidelines for JAPAN flagssm

The Japanese work week consists of 48 hours without overtime pay, completed in five and a half days. Some larger firms have now initiated a five-day week. Punctuality is necessary when doing business in Japan, because the Japanese believe it is rude to be late. Business cards (“meishi”) are an important part of doing business in Japan and key for establishing credentials. One side of your card should be in English, and the reverse in Japanese. Present your card, with the Japanese side facing up, held between the thumb and the forefinger. Carefully examine the card you receive and make an interesting remark about it. Then place in your card case or on anearby table during a meeting. Stuffing it into your pocket is considered disrespectful. Writing on a business card is also inappropriate. Maintaining "correct" relationships between people and maintaining harmony within groups is very important. You may be asked some personal questions regarding your salary, education, and family life. If you don't want to answer, remain polite and gracefully side step the question The bow is an important part of Japanese business protocol. Bows are used for expressing appreciation, making apologies and requests, as well as for greetings and farewells. Bows convey both respect and humility. The Japanese will shake hands with Westerners as a way of making others feel comfortable. In turn, it’s an asset for Westerners to bow to demonstrate that they are taking the initiative to learn Japanese customs. This simple gesture can do a lot to help a businessperson in establishing rapport with a potential Japanese client. The depth of the bow depends on the recipient's rank and status. When bowing to an individual who is of higher status than you, bow a little lower than that person to display deference. Do the same if you are uncertain of the status of the person that you are facing. With a person of your equivalent status, bow at the same height. Be careful when asking the Japanese certain questions. If the response is "maybe", "possibly", or "I’ll consider it", the answer is very possibly “no”. The Japanese prefer to avoid saying “no” directly. Be especially respectful to your older Japanese counterparts--age equals rank in Japanese business culture. When you start speaking, it is polite to direct your first remarks to the most senior member, and then to appropriate individuals. Meanings will be read into even the slightest gestures. Consequently, avoid displaying unusual facial expressions and motioning in ways that are remotely dramatic or expansive. The American "O.K." sign (thumb and forefinger shaped into an "O") actually means "money" in Japan. Instead of pointing, which is considered rude, use your whole open hand to point. Blowing one's nose in public is regarded as impolite. When necessary, use a disposable tissue and then throw it out immediately. The Japanese find the idea of actually keeping a used handkerchief or tissue disgusting. Laughter may indicate embarrassment or distress, rather than amusement. Smiling can also be used for self-control, particularly in masking displeasure. It is considered polite to frequently say “I’m sorry.” For example, the Japanese will apologize for not being punctual enough, having a cold, taking you to a disappointing restaurant etc. Visitors are encouraged to incorporate the same into their conversation. "Saving face" is an important concept to understand. When a person loses his or her composure or otherwise causes embarrassment, even unintentionally (“losing face”), it can be disastrous for business negotiations. Welcome Topics of Conversation
  • Inquiring about a person’s family (a good conversation starter)
  • Praising the hospitality you’re receiving
  • Japanese history and artistic achievements
  • Positive comments about the Japanese economy
  • Sports, such as golf and ski jumping
Conversation to Avoid
  • World War II
  • Jokes (unless they are very easy to understand, self-deprecating, and made in a social rather than business setting)
  • Criticizing in any form that could cause “loss of face”
  • Ridicule of native social / business rituals and protocol
  • Negative comments about the local sports teams
Bon Voyage! Join us in the future for JORDAN!   Contact Us for More Information! Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers www.circlesofexcellence.com Cross-Cultural Articles & Global Travel Tips www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog US: 972-370-1300 Contact Circles Of Excellence for your company’s Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50  Fortune 500 companies. Our topics include Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communications, Customer Service, Diversity, Leadership & Management,Presentation Skills, Sales & Negotiations, Stress Management, Team Building and Time Management. Contact EMMY AWARD WINNER, Gayle Cotton for your next meeting or conference to help your business become more successful in today’s global business environment. Gayle is President of Circles Of Excellence for Corporate Training & Executive Coaching. She travels worldwide as a distinguished Professional Keynote Speaker. Her vast experience living and working abroad will entertain and inspire any audience with her fresh, unique and humorous approach to Cross-Cultural Communications! Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert www.gaylecotton.com Visit Gayle Cotton’s Blog for additional Cross-Cultural Articles! www.gaylecotton.com/blog ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/03/cultural-clues-do%e2%80%99s-taboos-communication-guidelines-for-japan/ Happy Saint Patrick’s Day Phrases & Pronunciation in Gaelic! ST Patricks Day-Happy

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! (singular) Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Duit La ale-lah pwad-rig son-ah ditch Happy St. Patrick’s Day! (plural) Lá Fhéile Pádraig Sona Daoibh La ale-lah pwad-rig son-ah jeev St. Patrick’s Day Blessings Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig! Ban-ick-tee na fay-lah pwad-rig St. Patrick’s Day Blessing On You (singular) Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig ort! Ban-ick-tee na fay-lah pwad-rig ort St. Patrick’s Day Blessing On You (plural) Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh! Ban-ick-tee na fay-lah pwad-rig or-iv   Contact Us for More Information Coming soon this month on the Circles Of Excellence Blog! Watch for our new Article: Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos for JAPAN Blog: www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog Website: www.circlesofexcellence.com Coming soon this month on Gayle Cotton’s Blog! Watch for Gayle’s new Article: Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos for COLOMBIA]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/03/happy-saint-patrick%e2%80%99s-day-phrases-pronunciation-in-gaelic/ Events For Circles Of Excellence: March 2012 Citi Logo

The Main Event! New Customer Appreciation Citibank!   Executive Coaching programs for Cross-Cultural Training, Interpersonal Communication Skills Training, Executive Leadership Skills Training, Teambuilding Training and Customer Service Training programs]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/03/events-for-circles-of-excellence-march-2012/ Cultural Clues, Do’s & Taboos: Communication Guidelines for ITALY flagssm

In the Italian business culture, punctuality is not as much of a priority as in some places. However, it's best to arrive on time and be prepared to wait. In many cities there is a long lunch break from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Business may be discussed during lunch. Be aware of summer vacations in August, as most companies are closed. You will usually be introduced to older people and women first. When introducing yourself, it’s best to follow this protocol. Frequent, warm and enthusiastic handshakes are common for both business and social occasions. Italians will also greet people they know well with an embrace. It’s not unusual to see Italians walking arm in arm or even holding hands in public (men with women, men with men, and women with women). Italians can be very demonstrative and like to gesture with their arms and hands while talking. There are rare moments of silence and interruptions are common. Italians have many physical gestures that have very specific meanings. Because of this, avoid hand gestures where fingers are pointed or singled out in a descriptive way so you don’t offend anyone. In the Italian culture, people are traditionally expected to behave with a sense of decorum and formality. This concept is known as ‘bella figura’ (beautiful figure). In business, avoid chewing gum, leaning on things or slouching. Good posture and direct eye contact is important It’s advisable to wait to be seated at meetings, meals or gatherings. Take these opportunities to cultivate feelings of respect and trust with your Italian counterparts. Any presentation materials should be aesthetically pleasing. It’s essential that things look good as appearance is very important. Hierarchy in business and "cordata" (chain of command) cannot be underestimated. A belief in status and hierarchy permeates all aspects of Italian society. There is tremendous respect for power, authority and age. Decision making is rather slow and protracted, so be patient since rushing the process will only be an affront to the Italian business protocol. Honor and personal pride are critical. Never insult an Italian, their family, their town, their friends, or their church (which is predominately Roman Catholic). Welcome Topics of Conversation
  • Italian architecture and  landscape
  • Anything related to Italian art, opera and films
  • Sports, especially soccer
  • The warm Italian hospitality
  • Current events, as long as they are not derogatory to Italy
Conversation to Avoid
  • Religion, the Vatican and its policies
  • Politics, taxes, the Mafia and World War II
  • Criticizing the Italian culture, even if your Italian counterparts are doing so
  • Overly personal questions about job and family when you have just met
  • Negative comments about the local soccer team!
Bon Voyage! Join us in the future for JAPAN!   Contact Us for More Information! Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, Keynote Speakers www.circlesofexcellence.com Cross-Cultural Articles & Global Travel Tips www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog US: 972-370-1300 Contact Circles Of Excellence for your company’s Corporate Training, Executive Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers. We work with companies of all sizes and industries, including 50 Fortune 500 companies. Our topics include Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communications, Customer Service, Diversity, Leadership & Management, Presentation Skills, Sales & Negotiations, Stress Management, Team Building and Time Management. Contact EMMY AWARD WINNER, Gayle Cotton for your next meeting or conference to help your business become more successful in today’s global business environment. Gayle is President of Circles Of Excellence for Corporate Training & Executive Coaching. She travels worldwide as a distinguished Professional Keynote Speaker. Her vast experience living and working abroad will entertain and inspire any audience with her fresh, unique and humorous approach to Cross-Cultural Communications! Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert www.gaylecotton.com Visit Gayle Cotton’s Blog for additional Cross-Cultural Articles! www.gaylecotton.com/blog ]]> http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2012/02/cultural-clues-do%e2%80%99s-taboos-communication-guidelines-for-italy/