Etiquette in different countries: the rules of conduct

Unwritten rules of behavior existed in the days of cavemen, but the official concept of "etiquette" came to us much later - at the end of the 17th century. Since then, the requirements for the rules of behavior in different situations have changed, and today, given the fact that many of us have to deal with the rules of behavior abroad, it is impossible to behave decently in a particular country without knowing the elementary rules of behavior of different peoples.

Modern international etiquette takes into account the traditions and customs of the peoples of the world. Each country introduces its own peculiarities to the generally accepted rules of behavior. For example, the custom of hospitality and hospitality came to us from the ancient Romans.

In the Scandinavian countries, distinguished guests were imprisoned only in places of honor back in ancient times, and the people of the Caucasus since ancient times have been famous for respecting older people.

Knowledge of the requirements of etiquette in European countries will allow us not to get into an awkward situation with colleagues or partners from Europe. After all, sometimes what is accepted in Russia can be incorrectly regarded abroad.

Great Britain is one of the world economic centers. The British are paying great attention to folk traditions, they are very pedantic.

Etiquette at the table for residents of royal England is very important. You need to know how to use a fork and knife, but to make compliments or talk about work after the end of the working day is a sign of bad taste. At the official conversation should not be in worn jeans, and at a dinner party can not come in a tracksuit.

France is a country of educated and stylish people. At any meeting with the fair sex they should be presented with bouquets of flowers. Appearance at a meeting is thought over to trifles.

French business meetings are scheduled for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Exchange of business cards is obligatory. If you do not speak French, you need to learn at least a couple of phrases to ask a colleague to speak English.

The French consider it impolite to talk about income, but they can talk about their country's culture for hours.

Residents of Germany are very thrifty and punctual. During business meetings, they always keep their distance, do not recognize delays. Cases prefer to lead with the arrangement, slowly. All the revenues and expenses of the venerable burghers are entered into a special notebook - they will not overpay under any circumstances. You should not be puzzled if your German colleague brings a personal breakfast to the office and does not treat anyone: personal space for the Germans above all.

Spaniards are energetic and emotional, in business relationships they appreciate sincerity and dedication. Even at the first meeting, you must shake hands and business cards. Then follows a kiss on the cheek. Appeal: "Senor" or "Senora".

You should not boast of your income and achievements, and the business issue in Spain is coming to the end of a meal. Long communication is an obligatory part of Spanish etiquette.

Despite the fact that the Italians are considered emotional and talkative, they are very formal at the negotiations. Even with women, handshakes are required.

At meetings in a cafe conversation begins with small talk. Italians discuss sports, family, travel, and only then a business question. It is acceptable if your Italian business partner may be slightly late for a meeting.

Italians speak very quickly, and in order for you to understand them correctly, Pay attention to gestures and facial expressions. Non-verbal communication will give you more information than knowledge of the language.

The behavior in the East is significantly different from the manner of Europeans. Etiquette of Eastern countries retained elements of ritual and conventions. Most of the eastern states were formed on the basis of the ancient religions of the East. For the mentality of the inhabitants, the main thing is the interests of society, the family, the state, and not the personal interests of the person.

The nomadic life of the Bedouins left an imprint on the rules of behavior of Muslims in society. First of all, namaz is performed five times a day, no matter where the followers of the Quran are located: on the road, in the store or at work.

Older people are always held in high esteem; it is to them that first of all strangers are introduced. Then - a handshake, the men touch each other with both cheeks in turn, patting the interlocutor on the back. It categorically does not apply to women, they can simply nod their heads.

At the beginning of the conversation, a question about your business and health will be asked, but it should not be answered in detail - this is a question of politeness. Conversations can take a long time, since it is common for Arabs to make numerous pauses in speech.

For many Europeans, Japanese etiquette may seem strange, but it is worthy of respect.

Japan is a country of workaholics, where everything is put in favor of the interests of society and the organization in which they work.

In conversations with elders or superiors, the Japanese humbly lowers their eyes as a sign of reverence and respect. In communication, the Japanese almost never use gestures, never touch the interlocutor, a sign of goodwill - just bow

In China, respect for elders is also a mandatory part of etiquette. Friendly Chinese greet the guests with a nod of their heads, “you” refer to adults or unfamiliar people.

You can not stay up at a party, and at the table only the hosts start the meal first, and they also make the first toast. Business meetings do not involve "rest" - saunas and restaurants.

Turkey is a hospitable country where close friends shake hands and hug each other when they meet, and treat elders with a respectful “hit” or “Hanim” suffix. If you deserve respect, you will be invited to the bathhouse, will give gifts. Locals also love getting presents.

A positive nod with a snapping of the tongue of the Turks means refusal, and if you want to thank them, it is enough to put a hand to your chest. Do not approach mosques in open clothes.

India is a country with a diverse world of cultures, religions and traditions. The official language is English, the society is strictly divided into castes. When they meet, the Indians, in a sign of humility, squeeze their own hands instead of the usual handshakes, expressing respect for the guest.

Women should cover their legs and shoulders. Going into a house or museum, be sure to take off your shoes. In Indian culture it is not customary to eat with the help of a fork or knife - only with your hands. The exception is a spoon for soup.

Communicating, you can talk in detail about yourself - in India it is so accepted. White flowers bring only to the funeral. All gifts are packaged in red or yellow paper.

Appeal to "you" in Korea is replaced by the word "lord." A bow is required during the meeting. Men almost never reach out to women. Koreans are sitting on the floor using special pillows.

Being present at a business meeting, try to stay not too close to the Korean partner, they really appreciate the personal space.

In America, it is customary to smile in all situations. According to etiquette, complaining about the failure can only be the closest.

If you call an unfamiliar person to just chat, you will be considered rude. Call if you have an urgent matter.

Gifts in business circles are unacceptable, but a free posture during a business conversation (foot on foot, in the next chair) is permissible.

About 10 rules of table etiquette of different countries that should not be ignored, see the following video.