Business Communication Week eight

Question of the day First name, last name, group number Is cultural awareness important for business people? Why or why not?

Cultural Awareness How important are these things when doing business in your country? (1 – very important, 2- not important, or 3- best avoided) Exchanging business cards Shaking hands Bowing Kissing Being formal or informal Punctuality Humour Eye contact

Cultural Awareness Activity Group 1   It is polite to: - Talk loudly to show enthusiasm - Get close to the people you are speaking to - Talk quickly through your ideas and not have silences - Smile Group 2   It is polite to: - Talk quietly to gain respect - Be at least an arm’s distance away from the people you’re talking to - Pause between ideas - Look serious

Idioms What is an idiom? When are idioms used? What are some idioms you know?

Business Culture Briefing Meetings How important is punctuality in your culture? Is it okay to be late? Is a person’s status important in the meeting? Is decision-making slow or fast in business? Entertainment Do business people prefer to entertain guests at home or in a restaurant What are good/bad topics of conversation? Appearance How do mean and women dress in business? Is casual dress permitted in business meetings?

Business Culture Briefing Behavior Do people like a lot of personal space? Do they usually stand close or far away from another person when talking to colleagues? Business Practice Do you have to make appointments well in advance? What are the usual business hours? What is the usual time for a business lunch? How long does it last?