5.2. Letting Your Customer Take the Lead

Throughout the United States, the standard business greeting is the handshake, but in other cultures, the touching of hands may actually be offensive. To avoid any unintentional insults, a good rule of thumb is to let your customers or clients make the first move and then follow their lead. When you first meet someone, hesitate. If the person extends his or her hand, then shake. If the person hugs you, reciprocate.

Most people from other cultures who regularly do business in the United States are aware of and have adapted to our customs; if you're unsure, follow the customer's lead. Asians may nod as they shake hands. A reciprocal nod may make them feel more comfortable. People from many other cultures may prefer to bow.

It would require an entire book to cover all the differences among cultures. In fact, while writing this book, I was working on another book called Cross-Cultural Selling For Dummies with my friend and colleague, Michael Soon Lee, who happens to be an expert on this topic. To learn more about Michael Soon Lee and to take a multicultural quiz online, visit his web site at www.ethnoconnect.com.

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