Working+Across+Cultures

media type="custom" key="26768106" Listen [|here] Understanding dining habits in different cultures is important if you want to build strong business relationships. The key is preparation. So, before you go to another culture, find out about their dining habits.

In this workshop, we are going to look at seven areas that you should research before you travel abroad.

I'll start with arrival. Is it important to be punctual, to arrive on time? For example, in Denmark, it's not good to arrive late. But in Italy, you can arrive at dinner up to 30 minutes late.

Secondly, seating. Who sits where? Should you wait before sitting down?

For example, in Germany, it is good manners to wait until you are shown where to sit.

Thirdly, how much to eat? In Norway, Malaysia and Singapore, it is rude to leave food on your plate. But in Egypt

and China, leave a little food on your plate to show you are full. Fourthly, what you use to eat. Do you use a knife and fork, chopsticks or hands? In Arab cultures, you should not eat with your left hand. I'll move on to drinking. In some cultures, alcohol is not allowed. And in other countries such as Korea, Japan and Russia, it is rude or unlucky to pour your own drink.

Body language is another important area. Is it bad behavior to rest your elbows on the table, as it is in Germany?

Finally, leaving. In China, it is common to leave soon after your meal. However, in Colombia, it is polite to stay for a while after the meal.

We will now look at each of the seven areas in detail, but remember: if you are not sure what to do at the dining table, then do

the same as your host or other guests who know the culture.