Unit 2 Business in different cultures

Task 7 - Speaking.- With a partner, act out the roles below, based on the dialogue from Task 6. Then switch roles. 

Use language such as:

·                     Are you ready for your business trip?

·                     I'm sacred I'm going to ...

·                     It's customary to ...

A: I've been reading up on Japanese etiquette. It's got me worried.

B: What are you worried about?

A: It's full of pitfalls! I'm scared I'm going to make some terrible social gaffe.

B: I'm sure that if you're careful of your manners you'll be fine.

A: That's not the point. Good manners in Japan are different from manners here. Sometimes they're the complete opposite!

B: Like what?

A: Well, here you make eye contact when you shake hands. In Japan that's rude.

B: Really? I wasn't aware of that.

A: And it's customary to give gifts to your hosts, but there are so many gifts that can be offensive.

B: Like what?

A: Let me see. Here it says avoid giving white flowers, and don't give anything linked to the number four because it's unlucky!

B: So, what gifts are you going to take?

A: Well, the guide says people normally thank others for their hospitality by giving candies.

B: Then you should buy something nice from the candy shop on the corner.

A: Yes. Great idea

Task 8.- You are writing a guide for business people visitng your country. Using the guide and the conversation from Task 7, write a guide to ettiquete (100 - 120 words). Talk about:

·                     What is customary for people to do when they greet each other

·                     What people should be aware of during meals.

·                     What sorts of gifts are appropiate.

Etiquette guide for business people When people greet each other in the USA it is customary to address them by their title and surname and ask them how they are. If it is someone you are meeting for the first time then you should shake their hands and say "Pleased to meet you". If you go out for, say, a business lunch then generally you can eat as much as you like. However, if you are invited into someone's home for a meal you should try and leave your plate empty. Gifts are not expected but a small gift, like some flowers, would be appreciated.