USEFUL TIPS TO HELP
YOU SUCCEED IN DEALING AND COOPERATING WITH YOUR COUNTERPARTS IN ASIA
Social
Tips
Bring a large supply of business cards and advertising
material. You may meet many more people than expect. Asians
view the exchange of business cards in particularly as a very necessary
opening ritual.
Try to speak more slowly and distinctly but not so slow or
distinct as to offend. Keep in mind that many Asians have been
educated in the U.S. and that
the standard of English in Hong Kong or Singapore can be very
high.
Avoid buzzwords and explain concepts thoroughly.
If there is any question about the comprehension of English
by the people you are meeting, always use your own translator or
interpreter. Do not rely on the other organizations translator or
interpreter. They work for the other side and are more likely to
protect their business interest and to focus on their interests not
yours. Also, meet with your interpreter prior to the meeting and
make sure they understand you and your company.
Keep in mind that in most of Asia that dates are shown in
day/month/year format, ex. 5/12/99 means December 5, 1999.
To avoid confusion, you may want to use the full date in correspondence.
If an Asian person gives you a compliment, be polite and
deny it. Modesty is considered a blessing in Asia even more so
than in other regions.
Do not try too hard to "go Asian". Be respectful of
local culture but don't expect that you have to know everything.
Most Asian will make allowances for foreigners.
Try to learn a few words of the local language. This
show's to all your interest in the country and its culture and is
considered another demonstration of your cultural sensitivity and good
breeding.
Bring basic medications you use frequently. Also cold
and anti-diarrhea medicine as travel seems to induce these illnesses
more frequently.
Generally throughout Asia, it is better to drink bottled
water, especially bottled mineral water. Air travel, adjusting to
a different time schedule and sometimes higher temperatures and
humidity make drinking lots of bottled water always a good
recommendation.
Vietnam
Business Hours > Corporate Structure > Agreement &
Negotiation > Knowing People > Business Meetings
Thailand Business Hours > Corporate Structure > Negotiation
> Making Contacts > Business Meetings
