ID :
14125
Mon, 07/28/2008 - 20:18
Auther :
Shortlink :
http://m.oananews.org//node/14125
The shortlink copeid
Britons can now get lessons about Indian etiquette
London, July 28 (PTI) British business executives can now undergo Indian etiquette lessons before flying out to India -- thanks to the United Kingdom-India Business Councilwhich is launching a series of 'culture courses'.
With a growing trend of British companies seeking to establish a presence in India, the courses will offer valuable tips on how to bow graciously, smile politely and refrain fromkissing women, 'The Guardian' reported.
In fact, the lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips andcalling Indian managers by their first names.
"The U.S. and Japan are already well established in India but there's a feeling that if Britain does not get properly involved soon they will be missing the boat. Businessin India is all about trust.
"If you make a wrong move culturally you can throw away your chances," U.K.I.B.C's. Chief Executive SharonBamford was quoted as saying.
According to the U.K.I.B.C., which is headquartered here and is soon to set up offices in Mumbai and Delhi, there are 32,000 Britons in India and the number is growingsteadily.
The organisation has drawn up a list of dos and don'ts which include meeting potential business partners with a smile and the respectful greeting "namaste", making small talks andbowing slightly with palms together.
In its course, the U.K.I.B.C. will also advise executives against shaking hands with women unless offered, and not to kiss them in greeting or goodbye. The classes will also alert entrepreneurs to the fact that Indians "are notalways punctual -- so be patient and flexible".
With a growing trend of British companies seeking to establish a presence in India, the courses will offer valuable tips on how to bow graciously, smile politely and refrain fromkissing women, 'The Guardian' reported.
In fact, the lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips andcalling Indian managers by their first names.
"The U.S. and Japan are already well established in India but there's a feeling that if Britain does not get properly involved soon they will be missing the boat. Businessin India is all about trust.
"If you make a wrong move culturally you can throw away your chances," U.K.I.B.C's. Chief Executive SharonBamford was quoted as saying.
According to the U.K.I.B.C., which is headquartered here and is soon to set up offices in Mumbai and Delhi, there are 32,000 Britons in India and the number is growingsteadily.
The organisation has drawn up a list of dos and don'ts which include meeting potential business partners with a smile and the respectful greeting "namaste", making small talks andbowing slightly with palms together.
In its course, the U.K.I.B.C. will also advise executives against shaking hands with women unless offered, and not to kiss them in greeting or goodbye. The classes will also alert entrepreneurs to the fact that Indians "are notalways punctual -- so be patient and flexible".
