International Etiquette
Let’s take a mannerly trip around the world!
Trent Armstrong
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International Etiquette
I was thinking that it’s easy for us to get caught up in ourselves and miss the nuances of other cultures and their particular brand of manners and etiquette. Also, knowing the manners and etiquette of other cultures can come in handy and keep you out of sticky situations when traveling or doing international business.
Manners and Etiquette in the Far East
When traveling to China, Taiwan and other parts of the Far East, be sure to observe a certain after-dinner custom. It is appropriate and even considered a compliment to belch after a meal to indicate that it was wonderful and filling. But wait, do not clean your plate! Your host would certainly consider him or herself to be quite rude if they did not maintain a healthy portion of food on your dish. Eating all of your food would continue to put your host in an awkward position– and it might turn into an awkward position for you when you are not able to get up from the table.
Also, for those doing business in Japan, a business card is seen as an extension of the person. When receiving a business card from someone do not deface the card by writing on it, folding it in half, or shoving it in your pocket. Give and receive cards with both hands and examine the card to show respect.
Manners and Etiquette in Brazil
Brazilians expect each other to be a little late to dinner parties. Showing up exactly at the specified time will garner you a funny look. Meals in Brazil are a social event and usually take much longer than in most Western Countries; however, avoid talking with food in your mouth as it’s still polite to use your table manners. And it’s very important to always use utensils at meals. If eating finger food, use a napkin to pick it up. Even sandwiches, pizza, and fruit are eaten with a fork and knife.
Manners and Etiquette in Europe
In North America, we see a lot of commercials that tell us gum chewing is good for our dental hygiene. In many parts of Europe, including Luxembourg, Switzerland, and France, chewing gum in public is considered crass. Actually, in Singapore, chewing gum has been outlawed since 1992 when the residents decided they were tired of scraping already chewed gum off the streets and sidewalks.
Manners and Etiquette in the Middle East
Even with advances is public sanitation, it is still considered proper in the Middle East to reserve your left hand for bodily hygiene and offer your right hand for greetings. Also, many in the Middle East keep a very shallow area of personal space and stand very near to each other when conversing. It is considered rude to back away when someone approaches your personal space threshold.
Manners and Etiquette in The United Kingdom
We talked earlier about the loose arrival times associated with those social Brazilian meals; but in England, it is imperative to arrive on time. Also, if you bump into someone, you should say, “Excuse me.” However, the person with whom you have collided will also probably say, “Excuse me.” That is considered polite so you should follow suit.
Manners and Etiquette in Australia
When doing business in Australia, don’t be surprised to hear a little profanity in the workplace. However, it is certainly frowned upon in Oz to not greet your co-workers with a “good morning,” and talking loudly or not offering someone a beverage are also considered rude.
Wherever you travel, be sure to research the local customs and etiquette before you start your journey. You will certainly make a good impression and will endear yourself to the locals while showing respect for their local manners.
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