Business lunches are a big part of American business culture; deals might be agreed upon before the bill even arrives. However, other countries do not spend their business lunches in the same way, and some don’t work at lunch at all. When you travel, do you notice that periods of productivity vary nation to nation? When you are in another country, it is best to work when the locals work, if you want to get anything done.
Mixing Business And Pleasure In Italy
Countries differ on whether or not business should even be conducted over a meal. In Italy, lunch is seen as an important part of the day to relax, and the country pauses to enjoy the meal. It is unlikely you will get much business done at lunch, even if you eat with your colleagues. If you do end up having a business meal, expect it to last up to three or four hours, as Italians will savor their food even (or perhaps especially) when work is being discussed. Of course, in the United States and Canada, this length of time would be seen as excessive, even when discussing work.
Mealtime Rituals In Japan
Some countries are very precise about their meals. In Japan, workers may have as much as an hour for lunch, but lunch only occurs between twelve and one in the afternoon. Business lunches must therefore usually occur during those times. The ritual of greeting one’s business associates in Japan is very important; the depth of your bow indicates the level of respect you have for the person. It is therefore advised that you practice beforehand, in case you need to reciprocate!
German Lunchtime: Productive and Pragmatic
In Germany, meanwhile, workers attempt to take short lunch breaks so that they can finish their work earlier. Business lunches there are usually about eating and any discussion about business will occur at the end of the meal, if at all. Unlike Italians, the German lunch is not a celebration, but rather a refueling, with business best left for the office. Unsurprisingly, the German people are prompt, so you should always be on time for lunch if you are going to meet with them. Much like Japan, they have very specific ideas about meal times, and you would be wise to observe them when visiting their nation.
Take Heed Of Hygiene In India
In some countries, it is important to make note of cultural hygiene practices. In India, it is important to remember to only eat with your right hand, which is considered the clean hand for eating. If you are a left-handed person, this might seem strange at first. Unlike Germany, it is not considered offensive if you arrive a little late, but don’t arrive early: your host might find it rude, as they are still preparing dinner. Also important is to finish whatever food you take, as it is considered offensive to leave food on your plate.
British Lunching: Like America, With More Tea
In England, business lunches are so common that you will need to schedule yours in advance if you expect to see your associate for a meal! Often, these are scheduled through personal assistants, and it might behoove you to schedule a couple of weeks in advance. Much like the United States, working through lunch is common and you will find the emphasis on work, rather than on eating. Most British businesspeople expect an agenda prior to lunch as well, so plan to circulate yours beforehand, if you are running the meeting.
The most important thing to remember when dining with people in another country is that you are their guest, and so their customs and rituals trump your own. Many mistakes can be avoided by simply remaining observant, and noticing what is and is not done. Even though you are bound to make small mistakes sometimes, being gracious goes a long way. Remember to research before you travel, and to treat each meal as a learning experience.
Before you go, perhaps these articles might interest you:
- A Quick Guide to Business Etiquette in the United Arab Emirates
- A Quick Guide to Business Etiquette in India
- A Quick Guide to Business Etiquette in Ireland
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