BUSINESS ETIQUETTE TIPS

BY: ADLE BISE B. AGRESOR

ERNESTO G. BILOG
THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME OF THE MAIN BUSINESS ETIQUETTE
TRADITIONS WHICH SHOULD HELP YOU IN YOUR BUSINESS
DEVELOPMENT:

Be aware of any Never forget to say Be polite and don’t

01 02
differences between
the host country and
your own and try to fit
in with their business
culture
03
‘Thank You’ whether discuss the meeting
you are at a job straight away as
interview or client soon you step out of
meeting. the meeting room.

Always remember If you disagree with Always be honest

04 05 06
to switch off or put something instead of about whatever you
on silent your criticizing try to are saying.

phone in a meeting understand the other

to avoid distraction. person’s point of view and
never lose your temper.
Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

TIME MANAGEMENT
Time management is an important part of
business etiquette, but in global culture, people
appreciate time differently. In Germany, China,
and Australia, punctuality is valued highly, and
setting deadlines can guarantee a good
relationship. However, in some countries, such as
the UAE, Spain, Russia, or France, it is not as
important. When you realize you're the only one
that arrived early for a meeting, don't feel
offended and be patient instead.
Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

BODY LANGUAGE
Body language is an important part of
communication across different cultures, with
different interpretations of what is considered
appropriate. In Spain, Greece, or Arab
countries, strong eye contact is common,
while in Japan or Finland, it is considered
intrusive. Gestures such as arm gestures are
expected, but in Japan, this can be interpreted
as over-dramatization or insincerity. When
traveling abroad, it is important to double-
check what body language is appropriate
Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

COMMUNICATION
Conversational starters are an important part
of business etiquette, as they help to break
the ice before people start going to business.
Different cultures have different norms and
preferences for which topics to discuss, and it
is important to be aware of these norms in
order to effectively communicate with
customers. In Spain and Ecuador, light humor
is generally seen as acceptable, while in
France, formality is a priority.
Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

GIVING OR
RECEIVING GIFTS
Gifting is a controversial topic in business
settings, with some cultures frowning against it
and others encouraging it. In Japan, Indonesia,
and the Philippines, the gracious presentation
of gifts is part of traditional etiquette and local
tradition. In the Middle East or Asia, accepting a
gift with your left hand can offend the one
giving it. In Singapore, it's customary to reject a
gift two or three times before taking it.
Business Etiquette Is Different In Different Cultures

DRESS CODE
Dress code is important in the business
world, as it determines how well you are
received and perceived. In the UK, France,
and New Zealand, offices are governed by
conservative dress codes. In the UAE,
foreigners are expected to show modesty,
while in Saudi Arabia, formal dressing is
considered a form of respect and the
traditional abaya is a requirement.