During an introduction session with a Korean business partner, it is important to pay close attention to their job title and family name. Unlike in countries such as Iceland, calling an individual with their first name in South Korea is regarded as rude. Therefore, it is incumbent upon an individual to utilize either the last name or the job title.
South Koreans value the importance of punctuality. Therefore, individuals are expected to attend business meetings on time. In any case one feels that they will run late for a meeting, they are required to let the other party know ahead of time. As a convention, many business meetings are held between 10:00 AM and 12:00 P.M. If the option is in the afternoon, then the preferable time is between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM (Melissa, 2018).
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When meeting for the first time, shaking hands is regarded as the most appropriate way of greetings. South Koreans view it as a personal violation to be touched by an individual who is neither their close friend nor a family member. Therefore, during the process of interaction, one should remain keen to avoid patting, touching, and back-slapping. In some instances, a direct eye-contact between juniors and seniors should also be avoided.
Gift-giving is an appropriate way of appreciation of after a business engagement has occurred. The gift aims to acquire favors and strengthen relationships. After the host has presented the tip, the recipient is required to accept it. When exchanging the presents, partners must ensure that they are of similar value. In most circumstances, the gift with the most significant value emanates from the most senior individual (Melissa, 2018).
Although the attitudes of women in business are in the process of change, it is still difficult to find women occupying senior business positions in South Korea. Equality remains a significant challenge in the country, and in business meetings, the views of women are likely to be taken less seriously compared to that of men. However, a foreign delegation made up of women is more likely to be welcomed and treated well.
Body language among South Korean people remains an essential factor for consideration. Eye contact between a younger and an older person is regarded as disrespect on the part of the former. Nose blowing and sneezing are also considered rude, when receiving a business card or any other thing, receiving it with both hands signify respect. Pointing with fingers while talking is also viewed as offensive.
Also, maintaining the legs in a straight position and keeping the body in a slight stoop inspires a sense of respect when talking. Individuals are required to stand close enough that they can be heard by the entire audience. A slight bow would also be used as a way of expressing an apology while talking. Deeply bowing is an excellent way to end a conversation and expressing a conclusion.
Sitting arrangement in a meeting is a vital etiquette consideration. However, it depends on the nature of the setting where the business occurs. For those conducted in restaurants, the parties would prefer sitting facing each other. In boardroom meetings, individuals sit according to seniority and stature with the most senior person sitting towards the apex of the table near the chairperson’s seat.
One will show agreement by holding their hands together in approval. They can also need their head in slow motions in vertical movements. Disagreements are mostly expressed using still faces and head movements in the horizontal directions.
Reference
Melissa, (2018). Understanding South Korean Business Etiquette. 10 Magazines. Retrieved from : https://10mag.com/understanding-south-korean-business-etiquette/
