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This section provides a basic introduction to etiquette issues on the international stage. It is by no means a complete discourse as that could be a book in itself—and is by many authors. A few of those books are listed in the general references and you can find others by doing an Internet search.

Let's start with something that no one has probably provided for you before. A definition of etiquette: “the customary code of polite behavior in society of among members of a particular professional or group.”⁹

You may feel that etiquette is an antiquated control of behavior that your grandmother (or some other person) thought was important. Guess what? That person is right when it comes to the business world and actually everyday life. Certainly there are new attitudes about the place of etiquette in this social media‐saturated world. In the business world including the global marketplace, etiquette is still important.

Etiquette can also be thought of as common courtesy. Saying, please and thank you, holding the door for someone, and giving up a seat on a bus to an older person are all just common courtesies. In the business world, common courtesies can mean the difference between successful marketing and negotiation for a project whether in the United States or internationally.

If you wish to conduct business outside North America, it is critical to be sensitive to cultural differences and etiquette issues in the countries to which you may travel. Working internationally will require that you make it a point to read up on the country's differences in etiquette and cultural differences that will affect business dealings and design decisions. Table 3‐2 mentions several key etiquette standards to provide a context to this important issue.

TABLE 3‐2. International etiquette

Do not use a client's first name until that person has given “permission” that it is okay. Also respect titles, as they are very important in many countries.

Don't use humor or any kind of comment that could be offensive.

A gesture of greeting might be a slight bow, a hug, the shaking of hands and a bow, or some other manner of greeting. Whether you shake hands or bow can literally mean the difference between having a positive encounter or causing an international incident.

Though clients may speak English, they may choose at some point to conduct business in their own language.

Treat business cards from others with respect; don't write on them, for example, as this can be perceived as an insult.

Punctuality is generally appreciated, but not necessarily the norm in all countries. Make sure you understand this issue if you are working with international clients.

Respect the cultural differences of the country in which you are traveling. Do not expect the client to conduct himself or herself as a North American client would.

Before traveling to a foreign country, investigate how you will be expected to dress and what types of apparel are appropriate. This is particularly an issue for women traveling to many countries.

Respect their culture and customs, and they will respect you.

Make a point of staying out of political and religious differences discussions.

Gender sensitivity is very high in many countries. Learn what is taboo in the country you are visiting so that you don't have problems. Especially important for a woman who must work with a male foreign national.

Turn your cell phone off when meeting with an international client—even if they are on theirs. In fact, keeping your cell off for any business meeting is common courtesy.

If you feel it is important to give a small gift, make sure it is high quality and nonpersonal.

Sexual harassment and flirting may occur and you must handle the situation with diplomacy.

Once again, research etiquette issues before you travel or meet with an international client here or abroad.

A few books specifically on international etiquette are included in the references.