The  first rule when you’re travelling for business?  Remember that everyone hasn’t the same ways of working, and, indeed, of behaving in business and everyday life situations. If you’re setting up a business in India, be sure you’re behaving the way you should be if you want to be able to impress contacts and colleagues.

If you’re going to start a business in India, be careful that you do not forget the Indian etiquette. Here is the essential set of good manners to avoid faux pas. I found a very interesting blog post on Blog of Asia, a website dedicated to “travel, living and business in Asia”.

Greeting
Be prepared to either shake hands briefly, or to perform a Namaste. This is a simple gesture – bringing the palms of your hands together at chest height and bowing your head – which is a polite way to greet people.

Language
You can expect business meetings to be conducted in English, but it is a good idea to learn a few simple phrases, either in Hindi or the most widely used local language, as a sign of respect.

Titles
Always address people by their professional titles, whether it’s doctor or Mr. If you don’t know the person you are speaking to, then sir or madam is acceptable.

Business cards
Most meetings will begin with an exchange of business cards, so make certain you have enough to hand out of all delegates. It is also polite to include a Hindi translation on one side of the card, although this is not a necessity.

Arranging meetings
Make arrangements for meetings as far in advance as possible. Begin with a request in writing then follow it up with a phone call for confirmation. Business lunches are much preferred to dinner ones, and remember not to include beef in the menu if your guests are Hindu, or pork if they are Muslim.

Making connections
In India, it is important to show that you are personally trustworthy as well as presenting a good case for your business. This means that your personal qualities will be judged, and you should accept personal as well as professional invites if you want to build up a strong and lasting working relationship.