WHEN AT ROME, DO AS THE ROMANS DO (part3)
Не that talks much errs much.
A good English proverb, but it is not acceptable for modern business. Doing business worldwide I must be aware of what you are talking about. Here is some tips to help you conduct talks successfully.
Spain:
- In conversation, Spaniards may not only stand uncomfortably close, but may also pat your arm or shoulder. If you are put out by such gestures, it will only cause offence to try to retreat into your own private space.
Topics to avoid:
- Bullfighting [if you and your counterpart are likely to disagree];
- Religion [i.e. any aspect of Roman Catholicism];
- The Civil War and WWII;
- Franco;
- Basque separatism and Catalan regionalism;
- Gibraltar;
- Enquiries of a personal nature, especially during first introductions;
- Machismo and feminism.
France:
- Give opinions only on subjects that you are knowledgeable about.
Topics to Avoid:
- It is extremely bad manners to ask an individual about his political leanings or how he voted. You can, however, inquire about the political system or public opinion about political leaders.
- Do not criticize Napoleon, who has a lasting identity with the French spirit.
- Refrain from using the standard U.S. conversation opener, ‘What do you do?’
- Avoid making personal inquiries in the course of a conversation, especially during first introductions.
Germany:
- Be prepared to take the first step as the newcomer to introduce yourself to an established group when you arrive in a new environment.
- Giving compliments is not part of German business protocol and can often cause embarrassment and awkwardness. Compliments, especially from strangers can be taken with suspicion [“What does he/she really mean to say or want?”].
Topics to Avoid:
- World War II/the Holocaust
- Personal questions [especially salary, cost of personal objects] among people you don’t know or know well, especially in a business environment [work and family life are usually kept separate]
So, as you see that it isn’t rather difficult to converse in European countries, but the rules of conversation in Moslem countries are stricter.
I could say that Islamic people are very proud of their country, language, culture and history
Turkey:
- Avoid giving opinions over sensitive issues involving Turkey, especially Turko-Kurdish relations, EU membership.
- Turkey has had a turbulent political history which may be best left in the past. Try and avoid this subject as a whole.
- There is a West-East divide in Turkey on the issue of Islam. Generally, the Eastern Turks are a lot more conservative due to their closer adherence to Islamic values. Western Turks, especially those in Istanbul, Ankara or Izmir are usually a lot more westernized. Islam takes on more of a cultural feel rather than a religious one. Depending on where you are, be careful how you approach any topic about Islam.
Iran:
- Avoid questions around polemics in Islam, inquisitive questions about Islam are possible.
- Contentious issues that may lead to debate are the Revolution of 1979, Iranian- US relations and domestic policy.
- Do not ask personal questions unless a very close relationship has been established.
- Avoid making any negative comments about Iran regarding the leadership, infrastructure or people.
- And try to be always honest in the conversation. If they feel that you are hiding smth or there is an element of suspicion about your motives, you may not get very far.
So, as you can see that in conversations with the Moslem people you should be very attentive…
Japan:
- You may be asked extremely personal questions regarding your salary, education, and family life. If you don’t want to answer, remain polite but try to side step the question.
- It is considered polite to frequently say “I’m sorry.” For example, the Japanese will apologize for having a cold, taking you to see a disappointing movie and practically any other personal flaw. Visitors are encouraged to do the same.
- Don’t make direct refusals. In your dealings with Japanese business culture, remain indirect.
- Use as many Japanese sentences as you can.
Please, remember some Topics to Avoid:
- World War II
- Making jokes [unless they are very easy to understand]
China:
- Negative replies are considered impolite. Instead of saying ‘no’, answer ‘maybe’, ‘I’ll think about it’.
- You may be asked questions concerning your age and income. If you don’t want to reveal this information, remain polite and give an unspecific answer.
- Make an effort to learn and use at least a few words in Chinese.
India
- Most Indians enjoy good conversation on a variety of topics.
- Sometimes, Indians ask questions which can be seen as too personal. However, one must remember that discussing one’s family and personal life is normal among Indians.
- Indians seldom express their disagreement in a direct manner.
Please, remember the topics to avoid in conversation:
- Religious beliefs
- Pakistan
- The large rich-poor divide in India
So, now you know about welcome and unwelcome topics of conversation and the tone of voice to be used. 