Etiquette Tips on Business Traveling to Asia

How business is conducted largely varies on where said business is actually taking place. If you’re traveling internationally for business, your expectations on how that business will occur may need to be adjusted depending on your destination. When dealing with most of Europe or Australia, the same etiquette that we are accustomed to in the United States generally applies. If you are anticipating upcoming business travel to Asia – where some of the world’s most popular business hubs are located, you may want to follow the below tips on traveling to the east and how best to do business there.

Learn the art of the business card exchange.

Be sure that you have all of your details clearly printed on your business card and practice the act of gently and politely exchanging these cards with both hands with a coworker. It’s recommended to have your cards printed with English on one side and the native language on the other. Remember that the exchange is an important custom when doing business in Asia, so this is a step you do not want to skip.

Practice your introductions.

Keep in mind that many people in Asian cultures arrange their names differently than we do in the west. Family names are usually listed first, so try and do your due diligence in determining what is true in your case to better prepare for introductions. Additionally, it’s common place to both shake hands lightly with an accompanying nod or bow. Tighter and/or firm handshakes can be perceived as aggressive. Aside from this act of touching, avoid all additional physical contact (pats on the back, hugs, etc.).

Know some of the smaller nuances. Did you know that pointing with your index finger is considered very rude? Instead, beckon with an open hand toward your intended target. Similarly, sitting with your foot across your knee is also considered disrespectful, as pointing the sole of your shoes towards someone is considered a great insult.

Understand having “face.” In the US we call it “saving face,” but in some Asian countries, the ‘face’ that we reference is considered someone’s reputation. Having face is very important in business dealings. Don’t do something that may negatively affect someone’s face, such as make what we might consider a harmless joke, if it will cause any embarrassment or in some way tarnish reputation.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. If you aren’t sure what the customs of your host may be, just follow their lead.

Just remember, Asia is the largest continent in the world so be sure to do a little more research before departing to your final destination to make sure that you are best representing yourself and your company during corporate travel.