Australia
IntroductionWhen greeting someone during an initial business meeting, say your last name first, then add “Pleased to meet you.”
Belgium
Preferred TopicsBelgium has a rich cultural heritage and is well known for its art, architecture and music. If in a conversation with a Belgian colleague you mention the artists Rubens, Van Dyck, the singer Jacques Brel, or talk about a dance or music festival you have been to, it will certainly create a good atmosphere in the conversation.
Check yourself before you sit down at the negotiating table
WHO THIS PROJECT IS FOR
Students
and educators
For those interested in the topic of cross-cultural differences
Read Ask a Question
Personnel of organizations
For those involved in the development of cooperation programs with foreign countries
Read Ask a QuestionFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
During the greeting
In a number of cultures a firm Russian handshake is not accepted, for example, in India and Iraq. How should you greet your partner?
When contacting
It can be difficult to determine where on a business card is the first name and last name, and when it is possible to switch to "you".
Giving a business card
What language should the business card be in? What is important to remember when passing it on?
Starting conversation
What topics are considered dangerous? And what is the best way to engage in conversation?
Manners
Pauses in conversation, loud expressive speech, violent gesticulation? What is common in my partner's culture?
The answers to these and many other questions can be found on this site:
- business etiquette — in the intercultural navigator
- business practice — in-depth country information Order
- business situations, problematic issues — trainings, consultations Order
ARTICLES ON BUSINESS CULTURE
Why are decisions made quickly in some cultures and over weeks in others? What lies behind a partner's silence — or their unexpected “yes”? Our articles offer observations and practical advice for working with foreign partners.
2024/07/27
Humor in business communication
Let's talk about humor in business communication.
It's a universal category, but definitely culturally specific. Both in the East and the West people love to make jokes and laugh at them. A good sense of humour is an admired quality in many cultures, even if the type of humor may vary. Just see how different it can be:
Check yourself before you sit down at the negotiating table
Consultation Request
Contact us if you have any questions, can't find the right training or need more information.
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