| For example, Japan is assigns a high level of importance to a code of
behavior, including: |
| |
|
| • |
The ritual of gift giving |
| • |
How a gift is presented and
received |
| • |
What is said when a gift is
presented and received |
| • |
Giving/receiving a gift with
both hands, often with a bow |
| • |
Proper wrapping and color |
| • |
Number
of items in a gift |
| • |
Knowing
when to open a gift |
| • |
Knowing
how to reciprocate |
| |
|
| Gifts are Exchanged for a Variety of Reasons: |
| |
|
| • |
To build and maintain personal or business relationships |
| |
To celebrate special occasions |
| • |
To promote business products or
services |
| • |
To
enhance the image and reputation of the company |
| • |
To show appreciation |
| • |
To show respect |
| • |
To express an apology |
| • |
To encourage or motivate |
| • |
To celebrate or congratulate |
| • |
To acknowledge your host |
| |
|
The
Importance of Business Gifts
With few exceptions, good business relationships are built upon strong personal relationships.
Selecting an appropriate and proper gift requires knowledge & sensitivity. The art of gift giving is a tradition that has a long history in many parts of the world.
A British expression gives an excellent suggestion: Avoid carrying coals to Newcastle." People in Newcastle, a coal-mining town, would not appreciate receiving coal as a gift!
In other words, avoid giving something people already have. Do not give wine to the French, beer to the Germans, chocolates to the Swiss, or tea to the Chinese. |
| |
Cultural Savvy Recommendations
Research the cultural do's and taboos for each of the cultures in which you do business.
Consider the following: |
| |
| • |
Status and title of people receiving gifts |
| • |
Type & costs of gifts |
| • |
Relationship to people receiving gifts |
| • |
Wrapping gifts |
| • |
Protocol of presenting gifts |
| • |
Reciprocity |
| • |
Prepare a list of items that represent your local culture, region, country, company |
| • |
Keep a detailed list of gifts that you have presented, and the names of recipients. Duplicating gifts shows a lack of thoughtfulness |
| • |
Provide cultural training for employees who are responsible for making gift selections, and/or work with cultural experts that can make suggestions, or review your corporate gift giving programs |
| |
|
Copyright ©Joyce Millet All Rights Reserved.
CONTACT US to discuss how our training, consulting, and coaching services can help your company become culturally savvy. |
|
