Business etiquette is a process of building relationships with different people. Etiquette is not just about regulations and rules but also how to create an environment where others feel secure and comfortable. Business etiquette in India is essential to the success of any multinational. The locals are strongly guided by their shared values and religions ( Joshi et al., 2001) . Respect for hierarchy and elders are some of the core values that permeate the local communities. The assignment will address essential business etiquette practices in India such as titles and greetings, business cards, body language, and corporate culture.
Titles and Greetings
A handshake is the most common and standard technique of greeting both men and women in all business settings regardless of their seniority or age. When meeting small and independent businesspeople in rural or non-urban areas, one may be greeted through the word Namaste, pronounced as nah-mas-tay. A person may reciprocate the greeting by repeating the word by holding the palms of the hands together and bowing or nodding the head slightly ( Zubko et al., 2010) . In most cases, people reciprocate by a slight bow or nod of their heads when shaking hands, especially with senior figures. Also, the left hand is perceived as unclean and should never be used alone to accept business cards, handshake, gifts, drink, money or food.
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Business Cards
Business cards are significant when carrying out businesses in India and should be treated with respect. The business card must contain the businessperson’s email address, name, position, and company name, all in English ( Kumar and Sethi, 2005) . If the individual possesses such as a PhD or masters, disclosing the information on the business card will allow the businessperson to earn greater respect. Also, when presenting a business card, it should be done with both hands while holding the top in between the index finger and thumb with the top part facing the recipient ( Kumar and Sethi, 2005) . Also, after receiving the business card, one should spend a few seconds examining it and then provide a feedback.
Body language
Indians highly value their personal face and do not frequently make physical contact but Indian men often make friendly back patting ( Kumar and Sethi, 2005) . Back patting is a sign of a positive working relationship and a sign of friendship. Pointing your feet at another person or showing the soles a person’s shoes or feet is considered highly disrespectful. Also, it is insulting to step over religious offerings, papers, and books ( Kumar and Sethi, 2005) . Also, it is disrespectful to touch a person’s head or pointing with fingers. Indians avoid all situations that may cause embarrassment.
Corporate Culture
Depending on the type of business, some middle-level management may possess decision making autonomy. However, it is essential to ensure the business person a person is negotiating with has authority to make partnership and business decisions. Also, during a meeting, a person should not go straight to the main topic of discussion. A person should take a moment to ask personal questions regarding their career, contact’s family, or their childhood because Indians place a lot of significance in friends and family ( Zubko et al., 2010) . Although it is essential to arrive on time, being very early is perceived as disrespectful because the meetings rarely start on time.
Conclusion
The assignment has addressed essential business etiquette practices in India such as titles and greetings, business cards, body language, and corporate culture and their importance when building good business relationships. Building trust and good business relationships are critical in India. All businesspeople intending to invest in India should spend adequate time at social clubs, meetings, and dinners with potential business partners ( Joshi et al., 2001) . Before making a business decision, most Indians must first make or develop a personal connection.
References
Joshi, Manoj, et al. (2001). Passport India: Your Pocket Guide to Indian Business, Customs and Etiquette : World Trade Press.
Kumar, Rajesh, and Anand Sethi. (2005). Doing Business in India: A Guide for Western Managers. Palgrave Macmillan.
Zubko, Katherine C., et al. (2010). Inside the Indian Business Mind: A Tactical Guide for Managers : ABC-CLIO, LLC.
