Believe it or not, some common things we do in America offend people overseas. That’s right. Some of our most engrained customs — things we don’t even think twice about — could cause a real rift between you and your new overseas business partners. If you’re not careful, a handshake, a hand gesture, or an expected bite of food followed by a grimace could result in an unintentionally offensive insult.
Greetings and Introductions
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Conforming to the customs of the visiting country not only shows that you’ve taken the time to learn about its culture, but is a sign of respect to its hosts. It’s important to show that you care and want to build a friendly relationship.
Overseas countries can be much more traditional than the United States, where specific greetings have been used for hundreds or even thousands of years. For example, many people in India bow with their hands together (in a praying form) and say “Namaste.” Chinese business associates will shake hands, but be sure to let them initiate.
Exhibiting a willingness to learn and adapt to a country’s culture will go a long way in making your stay enjoyable. Take time to learn the customary greetings before traveling and practice if need be.
Offensive Gestures We Love to Give Everyday
Americans give each other offensive gestures all the time, but that doesn’t mean those same gestures are acceptable or embraced in other parts of the world. It’s important to take note of the common courtesies of the visiting country, so that a case of misunderstanding doesn’t lead to misfortune.
Although waving “hello” (opening the hand with your palm facing out) is one of the most common gestures in American culture, it is very offensive in Greece. In the Middle East, avoid shaking anyone’s hand of the opposite sex or giving the “thumbs up” sign to anyone you come across.
If you’re traveling to Asia, such as a country like Thailand, patting someone on the head is extremely insulting. They revere the head as sacred. Also note that in the United Kingdom the peace sign, a common gesture in the United States, is offensive. When in doubt, leave your hands at your sides and observe others before making any sudden movements that might offend anyone.
Cultural Food Habits to Observe
Whether you’re on a business trip or one of your much deserved vacations, food will no doubt play an integral part of your overseas excursion. It’s important to remain open-minded to trying different foods that may not seem traditional to your own tastes and preferences. In doing so, you’ll show your host that you’re willing to open your palate to their country’s customary dishes.
In the United States, bacon is a staple in the traditional American breakfast. When in the Middle East, avoid comparing pork products to foods from that region, where pigs are deemed unclean. In India, a cow is considered sacred so avoid any beef or steak references. At home we always clean our dinner plates, but doing so is a big insult in many Asian countries. Leaving food on the plate suggests you are full and satisfied by your host.
On a much more serious note, if you eat in public during the Ramadan fast in Saudi Arabia you face the scorn of hungry locals, all of which go without food on this religious holiday. This is such a serious offense it can carry jail time. When in India, never eat with your left hand. It’s considered a dirty practice because of their country’s sanitation issues.
There are many cultural differences between the United States and countries overseas. No matter how comfortable you feel traveling to your host country, it’s always a good idea to research it and familiarize yourself with its customs. Global Edge has extensive cultural information on nearly every country.
Public Displays of Affection
If you’re planning on taking an extended business trip, bringing along a significant other can sometimes help the time pass and allows for some nice quality time outside the home. Although sometimes frowned upon, Americans generally tolerate public displays of affection. In other countries, not only can this attract negative attention from the people around you because it is considered inappropriate and socially unacceptable, it can be a punishable offense.
To those who aspire traveling to Dubai or Saudi Arabia, be sure to avoid any public displays of affection. This includes kissing, holding hands, and hugging, which will all contribute to extending the length of your stay in a prison facility of either country. In other words, if you really love your significant other, show some restraint.
Over-the-Counter Drugs
Sometimes a long, stressful day of work all we need is a little aspirin. Although having hard drugs in your possession is punishable in American society, the list of illegal drugs along with their accompanying punishments varies from country to country. Knowing the prescription drugs you can travel with on your trip can literally save your life.
In Southeast Asia, many drugs available over-the-counter in the United States and Europe can carry up to life sentences in prison. With some of the toughest drug laws in the world it would be smart to avoid carrying any prescription medications along for your trip. Many westerners in the past have found out firsthand just how strict and unforgiving the justice system in this region can be.
Traveling, whether locally or abroad, means remaining cautious and aware of the destination you’re visiting. Remember to research your destination of choice to avoid finding yourself in an unfortunate situation or circumstance.
Dylan Adams is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a degree in Finance. He loves writing and blogging on all things business, marketing and finance related.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.com
