Culture & Etiquette
Cultural colours Cultural differences extend throughout business . Everything from seating patterns to signage can be impacted . For example , mourning is symbolised by white in Asia , purple in Brazil and Yellow in Mexico . Red and yellow , however , are lucky colours in China . Confusingly , never use red printing in South Korea . In Asian countries , the number four denotes death and should be totally avoided – even packaging in fours is a no-no . Likewise , avoid the number nine as it has connotations of suffering , and yet seven and particularly eight are considered very lucky . I had one instance where the client ’ s bill came to HK $ 76,000 and with “ bits ” came to HK $ 89,000 . I rounded it down to HK $ 88,888 and the clients ’ response was “ that ’ s lucky !”
Consider using the services of embassies and consulates as they will have ideas that you can incorporate into your events that will make a huge difference . A local official or regional representative will often
be keen to attract your clients and lay on experiences that would not be available to the masses . Having your dinner in some fantastic venue or having a performance or show that money can ’ t buy will pay huge dividends . It is interesting for your participants to learn about other cultures – but also gives an insight into how important culture is to that region .
Caveat emptor Most cultures are tolerant of any faux pax perpetrated by foreigners , but those who show a sensitivity and understanding of such matters are always held in higher regard . It can be hard to break old habits and rush in with a handshake when a ‘ wai ’ ( The wai gesture originated in Buddhism and has similar origins as namaste in Hinduism . It was basically a yogic posture of the palms and signifies the equal meeting of the two palms . It means that the other party is treated as an equal human being ) or a bow is the norm or expected response . How deep you bow or how long you wai also have connotations of respect and all contribute towards a happy environment .
From personal experience , I would advise as much research as possible in advance . Many years ago , we were pitching our first Japanese client and we had a trainer on our books who did a course entitled ‘ How to do business in Japan ’. We obtained his notes and read them and swapped notes with the presenting team . The bow and the two-handed business card pass were the key items we took away . We practised in the lift until the doors opened and we were faced with an all-European board of decision-makers ! As we left the building the security guard thanked us for signing out and wanted to show us something in the little room behind the security desk . It was CCTV footage of my director and me bowing to each other in the lift ! Caveat emptor ! n
20 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / ISSUE 129