PROPER GREETINGS CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUWhen it comes to international business, it is critical to understand culture, customs, and etiquette of different countries in which business is being conducted. Making a good first impression in both social and business situations can begin with your greeting. While people often judge initial interactions by a handshake, know that every country has a unique set of formalities when it comes to the greeting, and it is important to be courteousof these differences.1 Click here to view a video with live examples.

AUSTRALIA

21Make eye contact when you extend your hand. It is less

common to require the handshake to be firm; however, Australians can be offended by a limp handshake. And note that women do not usually shake other women’s hands.

BRAZIL

Greet with a firm, slightly longer handshake mixed with

strong eye contact. If you’re greeting a woman, kiss her on each cheek as well. Repeat this routine when you depart.

CHINA

Greet the oldest people first, as age is highly respected. Avoid

direct eye contact, grip the other person’s hand lightly, and bow slightly.

FRANCE

Whether you’re meeting for the first or twenty-first time, shake

hands quickly and lightly. The French are also known for accompanying a greeting with a quick kiss on each cheek.

KENYA

If greeting elders or high-status individuals, grasp the right wrist

with the right hand. Follow this with “Jambo,” which means “How are you?”

MEXICO

Handshakes are long-lasting. For men, the handshake might

also accompany a brief hug, and for women, a kiss on the cheek.

SOUTH KOREA

Usually, the most senior person in the room starts the greeting.

Be sure to use a soft grip and hold on to their right arm with your left hand, if comfortable.

THAILAND

Shaking hands is not an appropriate greeting. Instead, place your palms together at chest level and bow toward

the other person. This offering is called a “wai.” Foreigners are not expected to initiate the “wai,” but it is an insult not to return the gesture.”

UNITED STATES

Handshakes should be prefaced with eye contact,

as well as a verbal greeting and introduction. Ensure your handshake is firm – but not crushing – to exude confidence.

1 Sources:• Kathleen Elkins and Skye Gould. “Here’s how to properly shake

hands in 14 different countries.” Business Insider, March 5, 2015. • “What is Proper Handshake Etiquette Around the World?”

Mental Floss, December 5, 2013.

PREPARE FOR GLOBAL

RELOCATIONS – AND CUSTOMS

Multinational countries depend on Graebel to prepare employees for upcoming international assignments, Graebel manages on-the-ground services in 165 countries and is ready to help expatriates settle into their new homes and culture quickly. With years of experience living and working around the globe, the Graebel in-region staff understands how businesses operate in different countries and how to adapt to unique cultural nuances. Contact your Graebel representative for more information.

Baker’s DozenCustomer Satisfaction Ratings

2015 WinnerRELOCATION

The information contained in this document represents the current research of Graebel Companies, Inc. on the issues discussed as of the date of publication. This document is for informational purposes only and does not serve as an endorsement of products nor providers. Graebel cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information presented after the date of publication.

© 2015 Graebel Companies, Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are property of their respective owners.

APAC Headquarters: Singapore | 4 Shenton Way | SGX Centre 2, #29-01 | Singapore, 068807 | +65.6302.5111

EMEA Headquarters: The Czech Republic | Malé nám stí 459/11 | 110 00 Prague 1 The Czech Republic | +420.225.982.819

World Headquarters: USA | 16346 Airport Circle | Aurora, CO 80011 USA | marcom@graebel.com | +1.800.723.6683www.GRAEBEL.com

Global Employee & Office Relocation, Move Management & Workplace Services