With the world’s attention business wide turning east; what a relief! it would be to understand the underlying realities of doing business in Asia. Just like with any country, a prospect business individual would do themselves a great favor by getting to understand the Asian culture and their business way of dealings.
Understanding the realities of doing business in the east is a must. East includes countries like Japan, Chinese, Asia Thailand and Philippines. While heading east business wise, one needs to employer the services of an interpreter. The interpreter should be able to stay along until the end of the business. Changing interpreters in the middle of a business deal is not recommended. It is also advisable to seek the services of reputed translators and not the third party oriented ones. When it comes to business negotiations let the interpreter advice you on what to do in advance. Most of these Asian business countries appreciate when a buyer takes time and negotiate with them the value of the item in question.
Dress code
When considering doing business in the East, proper dress code is a must. Do not over-dress or under-dress, if possible respectable way of dressing will be an honor to both you and the buyer. Dress code and body language go together. Among the countries in the east women do not greet men they only bow. Shaking hands amongst male and female business associates is a sign of dis-respect. Dressing should be formal with no extremes.
In any business dealings before signing the dotted the line makes sure to find out every single detail. Value the hospitality of your business associate. The east or oriental people value relations and per their culture if they remove shoes also do so. Do not abuse the hospitality of your business associate. When given a business card, receive it by both hands and give out your card using both hands. Never ever mishandle a business card in-front of a business a business associate. Take time, show interest and read the business card in-front of your business associate.
