Basic cross-cultural survival tips for new Western APAC leaders

Doing business can be risky and challenging for newcomers to Asia where many of the behaviours that made you respected and successful at home can be misunderstood and looked upon as arrogant or rude. While generalizing is always dangerous and there is no one “Asian culture”, just as there is no one “Western culture”, there are some cultural similarities among the countries in Asia.  Knowing the basics can keep you from starting your business relationships on the wrong foot during those first visits. 

1. If you are a man greeting a woman, say hello with a slight nod of your head, unless she extends her hand.

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