Guide to Culturally Considerate Business Practices in Three Countries Outside of the United States

Country 1: Japan

Authority Figures:

• Authority figures are highly respected in Japan and should be addressed using appropriate honorifics, such as "-san" or "-same."
• Direct eye contact and interrupting while someone is speaking to an authority figure should be avoided as it is considered disrespectful.

Levels of Formality:

• Business professionals in Japan typically dress conservatively and formally.
• As mentioned above, formal language should be used in business settings, using honorifics.

Social Norms:

• Bowing is a standard greeting in Japan, and it should be reciprocated.
• It is considered rude to blow your nose in public or to eat while walking.

Time and Scheduling:

• Punctuality is highly valued in Japan, and arriving on time for meetings is essential.
• Meetings should be scheduled well in advance, and cancellations should be avoided.

Business Practices:

• Business cards are highly valued in Japan and should be presented and received with both hands.
• Gift-giving is also a common practice in Japan and choosing an appropriate gift that shows thoughtfulness and respect is essential.

Sources:

• https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/japan-guide
• https://www.businessculture.org/asia-pacific/japan/

Country 2: Brazil

Authority Figures:

• Authority figures in Brazil are generally treated with respect, but there is more flexibility in addressing them. For example, it is acceptable to use first names in some situations.
• Interrupting someone while they are speaking, especially an authority figure is considered rude.

Levels of Formality:

• Business attire in Brazil can be less formal than in other countries, but it still should be professional.
• Portuguese is the primary language used in Brazil, and it is helpful to know some basic phrases.

Social Norms:

• Physical contact, such as hugging or kissing on the cheek, is common in Brazil as a greeting.
• Pointing with the index finger is considered impolite, and the thumbs-up gesture can be interpreted as obscene.

Time and Scheduling:

• Scheduling can be more flexible in Brazil, and meetings may only sometimes start on time.
• Building personal relationships in Brazil is essential, and socializing outside work is expected.

Business Practices:

• Business meetings may involve meals, which can be lengthy and social affairs.
• Brazilian holidays and events should be considered when scheduling meetings and doing business.

Sources:

• https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/brazil-guide
• https://www.businessculture.org/south-america/brazil/

Country 3: Germany

Authority Figures:

• Authority figures in Germany are generally addressed using appropriate titles, such as "Herr" or "Frau."
• Interrupting someone while they are speaking, especially an authority figure is considered rude.

Levels of Formality:

• Business attire in Germany is typically formal and conservative.
• However, German is the primary language used in business, and it is helpful to know some basic phrases.

Social Norms:

• Germans value punctuality, and being late is considered disrespectful.
• Eye contact is essential in German business culture, and not maintaining eye contact can be interpreted as a lack of interest.

Time and Scheduling:

• Meetings in Germany are generally scheduled well in advance, and punctuality is highly valued.
• Preparing for meetings and having all the necessary information ready is essential.

Business Practices:

• German business culture values efficiency and directness, and small talk may be minimized.
• Contracts are essential in German business culture, and all agreements should be put in writing.

Sources:

https://www.commisceo-global