Intercultural Business Etiquette

South Africa
Greetings, titles, business cards
• A handshake is the most common form of greeting, though some
women may give men just a nod of acknowledgment. It is best for
men to wait for the woman to initiate the handshake.
• It is best to address people using their professional title or Mr./Mrs.
and last name.
• There is no set protocol with the giving and receiving of business
cards, but it is always advisable to treat the card with respect.
Gift giving
• Gift giving is not the norm in business.
• Use either both hands or the right hand when giving gifts.
• If invited over for dinner or a drink to a South African home, you
should always bring the host/hostess a gift. Flowers, a bottle of
high quality wine, or good chocolates are acceptable gifts.
• Gifts tend to be opened when received.