Cross cultural communication

1. UNITED STATES AND CANADA

2. Handshake is the common way of greeting. Use firm
handshake with good eye contact when meeting and
leaving.
Interaction is usually open and cordial.
Men will wait for a women to extend her hand for
handshake.
Use a person’s title if he or she has one. Otherwise use
Mr, Mrs, Miss and the surname.
Always maintain a reserved demeanor and follow good
rules of etiquette.
Do not eat while walking in public or in meeting.
Gifts are not routinely given. Gifts are given to celebrate
finalizing a contract, negotiation or a project.

3. Taking a business associate to a nice meal or an
evening sporting event, play or symphony is always a
nice gesture.
Invitation to private homes are rare.
Wait for your host to start a business conversation
during or following a meal. Traditionally business is not
discussed during meals.

4. Firm handshake with good eye contact.
Use a person's title
Be open and friendly in your conversation.
French Canadians are more demonstrative when talking.
Print all material in French and English.
Don't overstate your product or service's capabilities
Canada and USA are different.

8.  A conservative, well dressed appearance
 Suits and ties are standard for men
 Business suits or dresses are standard for women

11. Meeting:
 Scheduling meetings in advance is required
 Meetings are preferred to be held in morning.
 Rank and titles play a somewhat more important role.
 Usually speak in a controlled fashion.

12. Negotiation:
 Conducted by individuals or teams of negotiators.
 Names are usually given in the order of fi rst name,
family name.
 exchange of business cards
 Presentation:
 Presentation materials should be very att reactive, with
good and clear visuals. Prepare thoroughly and make
sure your key messages come across clearly

13. Americans conduct business over breakfast, lunch and dinner.
two styles of eating: American and Continental.
Americans tend to eat more quickly than people from other
countries.
the traditional American style, cutting food with the knife in the
right hand, fork in the left, and switching the fork back to the right
before taking a bite.
Also known as a “Switch and Switch” style, it requires diners to
cut one bite of food at a time.