Cross-cultural know-how for first time meetings

3 cultural know-how tips about first meetings, that I recently read on linked in........

1. Dress conservatively

You are planning to attend two important networking events: one in Milan, Italy, and another one in Dubai, UAE. How do you think your typical conservative suit would be perceived in these cultures?

In Italy, and particularly in Milan, the capital of fashion, the dress code is not to be overlooked. Style of dress is of the utmost importance, as outward appearance is indicative of inner values. Clothing is considered a reflection of your social standing, family background, education level, and overall level of competence. Therefore, dressing too conservatively or not making the extra effort to follow the current trends may give quite a bad impression.

On the other hand, your knee-length skirt, or tight-fitting trousers may be considered inappropriate in Dubai, where women usually wear loose-fitting dresses and show as little skin as possible. In Arab countries, modesty in dress and behaviour is the basis for respect. Not taking this into account may not only give a bad impression but even cause offence.

2. Greet every one with a firm handshake


The British handshake is a firm, quick shake. The firmness of the handshake is supposed to convey both dynamism and sincerity. It is considered acceptable for women to instigate handshakes with other men and women. But is it the same in Japan or Saudi Arabia for instance?

In Japan, hand shaking can only happen when an older and higher positioned Japanese person offers his hand to a younger person but never the other way round. Besides, handshakes are not supposed to be strong, and they seldom are. Therefore, a senior Japanese may not appreciate you instigating a firm handshake with him and may even feel offended by your obvious lack of respect.

In Saudi Arabia, physical contact between men and women is to be avoided. Be aware that while Saudi men may shake hands with other Western men, some Saudi men will not shake hands with Western women. You should therefore let them initiate the greetings and follow their lead.

3. Smile


British people tend to be quite reserved – there isn't generally an extensive use of gestures or facial expressions in the UK. A British person making a special effort to smile may appear moderately expressive in comparison to other cultures.

In Nigeria, smiling and showing sincere pleasure when meeting a person is important. People tend to be very expressive and more use is made of facial expressions than would be the norm for Northern Europeans. Warmth and friendliness are highly valued qualities. Neutral facial expressions are likely to be interpreted as a lack of interest in the other person.

However, smiling too much may be considered suspicious in Russia. Russian people tend to be rather formal, unsmiling, reserved and poker-faced at first encounters. They tend only to warm up when they are starting to appreciate and trust you.

Successful meetings...................