I'm delivering sales software training soon for a number of attendees coming to the US from several Asian countries - Singapore, China, South Korea, and Japan. Most of these people have a good amount of exposure to western culture and work with counterparts in the US and Europe.

I don't have time to learn the business etiquette for each country; are there some basic/general rules to follow? Let's say a top 5 do's and don'ts when leading training for "Asian" attendees?

For example:

• Introductions
  
• Business card giving/receiving
  
• Calling on attendees to participate
  
• Asking students to demonstrate procedures in front of the class
  
• Group activities
  
• Awarding prizes for participation
  

Thanks!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Goose,

It's difficult to group 'Asia' together as their are many different customs. However, here are some general tips:

Introduction - Usually courteous to bow. The lower you bow the more respect.

Business Cards - Deemed as absolutely critical and should be professional. Emphasis is placed on title, so this should reflect your position.

Asking students to demonstrate - This is ok. However, 'face' is very important. You should always consider how the individual may feel and respect them. If they reject an offer to get involved, accept this with grace.

Group Activities - Similar to above. An add on is; never touch heads of participants and better not to touch them at all.

Awarding prizes - this should be ok. However, there are certain prizes to avoid, which are different for each culture. For instance, the chinese consider anything wrapped in white paper as it signifies death.

I realise you may not have much time. However I recommend you do a Google search on 'Etiquette Asia' prior to each country you visit. This will take a minimum of time and could save you a lot of trouble!

This is exactly what I was looking for. What I am most concerned with is getting people to participate without embarrasing them or me.

Thanks!

Hey Goose,

I know from personal experience as it relates to the Japanese culture to hand and recieve business cards with both hands and give a modest head nod (bow) to acknowledge it. Bowing can be considered humorous to certain generations, so I would make sure it is age appropriate. Older generations still find it acceptable, but younger generations don't put as much stock into it. I know it's not much info, but I hope it helps.