学年级第一学期西方礼仪与文化期末课程论文答题卷

名姓 70 号学 班2001 级班 语汉外对 业专 育教际国 院学 华小浙江越秀外国语学院2011—2012学年

第一学期期末考试

《西方礼仪与文化》课程论文答题卷

总分 复核 得分 阅卷人

Doing business in different cultures

Abstract:This theme take into account the diversity of doing business in different countries, based on some unfamiliar customs and behaviors demonstrated by the different countries business people. Nothing is more comfortable and secure than understanding the cross-cultural aspect. Understanding can facilitate communication and avoid misunderstanding. Although minor mistakes are permissible, misunderstandings and

failure to recognize important cultural subtleties may

lead to stagnation or dismissal of the business. Therefore, \immersion in a new culture. Individuals who may not experience all the effects of culture shock must adapt to them and adjust well by learning this study.

Key words: diversity, business, cross-cultural, culture shock

1 Introduction

In the business world, it is often said that time is money. Now we should add that being fully aware of cultural differences and sensitivities is money, too. Today, international businesspeople find themselves working in multicultural environments, in which cross-cultural knowledge and understanding is in creasingly important. To be successful in the new global economy, they have to deal with real differences in everything from communication styles to social etiquette to core values.

2 Doing business in different countries business in Japan

When interacting with Japanese business people. American business people sometimes feel uncomfortable, puzzled, lost, irritated and the like, based on some unfamiliar customs and behaviors demonstrated by the different countries business people. In the following, three areas are discussed:

(a) business suits. Many Japanese businessmen tend to wear dark suits of navy blue, dark gray or brown. The suits and ties that they wear are quite conservation. A Japanese businessmen usually fastens the top button of his suit when he comes into a room to meet with his American counterpart to discuss possible business. (b) business card exchange. Meishi (Business cards) are passed in a precise ceremonial exchange of bows that help keep this status-oriented society together. When Japanese exchange business cards, it is common

practice to stand up and give the business card with two hands rather than with one hand, while at the same time bowing slightly. Although the Japanese businessmen may hand his business card with two hands to a American or foreigner, the foreigners may receive it with one hand. The Japanese people will not feel offended, but slightly uncomfortable feelings may in fact remain. Furthermore, he normally turns it in such a way that the receiver can read it without having to turn it.

When a Japanese businessmen receive a business card, he usually takes a look at it and read the description of the contents. They never put business cards in a back pocket. They never write on business cards.

(c) gift exchange. When giving a gift, a Japanese will stang up and hold the gift out with his two hands. Then the others Japanese is expected to stand up and extend his two hands in order to receive the gift with courteous feelings and appreciation. When a Japanese stands up and gives a gift with two hands, if a foreigner remains

seated and receive the gift with one hands, the Japanese may feel slightly hurt and the manner will give an unfavorable the Japanese , what is important is the thought and effort made in bringing the gift, rather than the value of the gift itself. To say \the omiyage (gift)\at the end of the conversation will contents the Japanese.

Generally speaking in Japan, when Japanese businessmen from one company visit anther Japanese company to do business, they might take gifts such as cakes and sweet pastries with them except, perhaps, on their initial visit. However when it comes to international business negotiation to held in the an American company and a Japanese company,a gift is often brought. If the first opportunity to get acquainted with each other, the giving of a gift is just a form of greeting. Presenting a gift implies good will, a friendly attitude and, possibly, a desire to do business together. The price,quality and value of the gift