0816_TOEFL-Test-and-Score-Manual-1997

274 ● 201 Great Ideas for Your Small Business
good way to avoid confusion is to write a date like this: 5 February
2012. This can save you the grief of a missed appointment or conference
session.
• Always bring gifts. Many foreigners will expect you to present them
with a gift before any real business can be done. “Consider the person’s
heritage, religion, and culture before choosing a gift,” advises Seid. For
instance, items made of cowhide are verboten in India because cows
are considered sacred. Never give a Chinese person a clock, because if it
stops, it’s considered bad luck. Mexicans are offended by letter openers
or sharp objects. So what is the best universal gift? Chocolate! If it’s too
hot to bring chocolate, try a well-crafted business accessory such as a
business card case.
• Don’t wrap your gifts. You will probably be asked to open them by
customs officials. “Take paper and simple ribbon along to wrap it after
you arrive,” Seid advises.
• Treat shopkeepers with respect. Always acknowledge the person standing
behind the counter when you visit a shop. “Americans have often been
criticized for being rude because we don’t say anything to the clerk or
cashier,” said Seid. “Most small stores throughout the world are owned by
husbands and wives and often staffed by family members. It is customary
for visitors to greet the shopkeeper when entering the store and say
goodbye, even if you don’t buy anything.” Visit AdvancedEtiquette.com
for more information and to register for Seid’s workshops and seminars.