TradePost Archives > April 9, 2009 > this article

Cultural tips for global business: India

General:

• It is considered rude to point directly at someone.
• Standing with your hands on your hips is seen as a sign of aggression.
• Never touch people with your shoes or feet, and apologize immediately if it happens accidentally.
• Avoid discussing the relationship of India with Pakistan, the marriage tradition of dowries, religious beliefs, poverty, or any other current political issue facing India.

Greetings:

• Indians greet each other (and say good-bye) with the 'Namaste,' which is formed by pressing the palms together (fingers up) below the chin and nodding the head.
• When addressing an Indian whom you know personally, always use the appropriate formal title, whether Professor, Doctor, Mr., Mrs. or if you do not know their names then Sir or Madam will suffice.
• When meeting foreigners, Indian men will shake hands. Traditionally, Indian men do not generally shake hands with or otherwise touch women.
• When entering a meeting room you must always approach and greet the most senior figure first.
• In Indian culture, it is considered improper for a man and woman to embrace and kiss in public.
• Punctuality is expected, although being 10 minutes late will not have disastrous consequences.

Business meetings:

• Bring plenty of business cards; you will be handing them out frequently, and not having enough is considered rude.
• It is a good idea to have your business card translated on one side into Hindi, more as a sign of respect as opposed to linguistic necessity.
• Be sure to receive and give business cards with your right hand, and make sure cards are put away respectfully and not simply pushed into a trouser pocket.
• When negotiating avoid high pressure tactics.
• Do not be confrontational or forceful.
• Criticisms and disagreements should be expressed only with the most diplomatic language.
• Indian society has an aversion to saying "no" as it is considered rude, due to the possibility of causing disappointment or offense. Listen carefully to Indians' responses to your questions. If terms such as "We'll see," "I will try," or "possibly" are employed then chances are, they are really saying "no."
• Indians often over-promise in an effort to please: admitting a job is difficult to get done is often considered rude or weak.
• If your business dealings in India involve negotiations, always bear in mind that they can be slow. If trust has not yet been established then concentrate efforts on building a rapport.
• Decisions are always made at the highest level. If the owner or Director of the company is not present, the chances are these are early stage negotiations.