Sep 20, 2011

Business Etiquette in India



India is a country composed of a multitude of religious cultures coexisting side by side. The dominant religion is Hinduism, but significant numbers of Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Jews, and Christians also live in India. Onto this religious diversity is grafted a layer of British formality and good manners resulting across the country in a population that is as polite as it is distinctive. you can expect a great deal of discussion the pleasure most Indians take in bargaining and you have the markings for some long business meetings.

Meeting and Greeting

In general, Indians are formal upon first meeting. Elders are respected and differed to many situations, business ones included. Caste rankings still play a role with a wide variety of social and business interactions, although they're not as pervasive as they previously were. You may see an Indian bow slightly to another - that is either a show of respect for age or a show of respect for age or a show of respect for someone higher in rank.
Names and Titles
Use last names upon meeting someone for the first time and mention any higher academic or other titles.

Business Attire
India is hot and the clothing is casual. Suits are rarely seen, although a light jacket with a shirt and pants is standard outfit for businessmen. Women wear slacks and a jacket or long dresses.

Dining and Entertaining
Business lunches are common in India, and it's perfectly appropriate to discuss business at lunch. Dinners at Indian homes are bounteous and delicious. It's rude to show up on time but you shouldn't be more than half an hour late either. When you eat, do so without using your left hand. As in Muslim countries the left hand is symbolically unclean. And don't thank your host at the end of the meal.

Don't make these mistakes:
1. Putting your hands on your hips is rude.
2. Touching someone with your foot is rude, as is pointing with your foot.
Business CardsBusiness cards are presented without a great deal of ceremony. But present your card with your right hand.

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