BCL International Executive Protocol

FOR MEN ONLY
In this new flat world of global business, manners do matter!

Since most men are uncomfortable with the word “etiquette, think of it as “Business Protocol” – because if you don’t know the rules like a diplomat, you are jeopardizing your success as an international businessman.

First Impression
In the world of international business the first seconds that you are introduced, may make or break a business transaction before it has every started. So here are some important tips.

Dress
While the U.S. went Friday casual, most of the remainder of the business world is dressed in a business suit, shirt, pocket handkerchief, and tie Exceptions are in those climates at or near the equator where the heat calls for a simple shirt and pants.

The first thing when you land in Malaysia for instance, your business associate may give you a gift of a batik shirt to wear. In the Philippines, the men wear a pleated white cotton shirt, freshly pressed. Singapore, Thailand, are other countries in that part of the world are similar. Hong Kong also is jacket country if one is meeting with Bankers and high level business executives. Most building now are so air conditioned that you will be happy to carry a jacket with you.

MEETING & GREETING
Smile and that will produce a friendly sparkle in your eyes. Americans look a person directly in the eyes on first meeting, but don’t be surprised if an Asian business person does not give you a direct gaze in return. Some Asian cultures are not comfortable with the direct gaze. Arabs culture welcomes the direct eye contact.

The handshake is appropriate in meetings both men and women. Just be sure your hands meet web to web. Two to three pumps are enough. Don’t squeeze so hard that that it hurts and never give a limp handshake just touching the other’s fingers.

Have your business cards at the ready. One side should be printed in the language of the country and one side in English. When exchanging cards, use both hands in the presentation. In receiving a business card, take time to read it and if necessary ask the person the correct pronunciation of his or her name. That will also help you remember names.

How you sit is important, especially in the Middle Eastern countries. Sit with your feet placed on the floor.Do not cross your legs so that you shoe the bottom of your shoe or point your toe at another person. Don’t spread your legs informally which is much too casual for a business meeting. Don’t fall into the chair. Keep control of your body.

In dealing with Middle East and Asian business people it is considered an insult for your toe to be pointing toward a person and to show the bottom of your shoe is even worse.

Hi! is not correct for business with foreigners. Hello is proper, or better still, learn the word for “hello” in the country you are visiting.

In China when being introduced at a banquet or to a group of workers you may be applauded. Always applaud in return.

MASTER YOUR MANNERS
American women seem to love to receive red roses as a thank you for being entertained in the home. The color of flowers in many other cultures can have another meaning

In France red roses are for lovers. When sending flowers to your host’s wife, choose any other color. Do not send chrysanthemums in Japan. That is the flower reserved for the Emperor and Empress. Do not send white flowers in China because that is the color for death or mourning.

It is no longer a smoker’s world, so if you must smoke, always ask your host or hostess for permission or politely step outside.

Know proper dining etiquette. How you eat your food can leave a lasting impression about you. Know when to give a toast to your host. Know how to respond.

For more information on our Business Protocol classes, please contact BCL International at bclavery@earthlink.net or call 310-889-7891.