Office Etiquette - India

A melting pot of cultures and religions, business in India is an amalgamation of influences from both within the sub continent as well as from the West and the Middle East. Indian business culture tends to be polite and bordering on formal.

• A short handshake is the customary start to most business meeting. The important rule is to shake hands with a woman only if she has put out her hand. Else a greeting would suffice.

• Punctuality is vital to doing business in India, though occasional lapses are accepted. Most meetings indulge in the introductory small talk and then moves on to business issues. In fact, it is quite possible that no business will be discussed at the first meeting.

• It is advisable to address Indian colleagues with the title that signifies their status especially in the initial meetings. "Professor ..." or "Mr. ..." or Ms ..." with the name that follows the title being the surname and not a first name.

• Formal clothing is the accepted business attire. Men mostly dress in a suit and tie. Women could be dressed in conservative dresses or pantsuits.

• Business cards should be exchanged at the beginning of a business meeting. Be prepared with enough cards to be passed on to everyone at the meeting table. Always accept the card with your right hand, as the left hand is thought to be unclean.

• Body language is closely watched in business scenarios. Do avoid aggressive stances like standing with your hands on your hip or talking in loud voices or with angry gestures.

• Business etiquette in India urges cell phones to be put on the silent mode and calls not be answered or made during a meeting, except in case of an emergency.

• Always send a detailed agenda in advance. Send back-up materials and charts and other data as well. This allows everyone to review and become comfortable with the material prior to the meeting.

Source: Internet