Some like it hot: Top tips for smooth working in India

TrainingZone

Some like it hot: Top tips for smooth working in India

By TrainingZone

Spectacular economic growth sparked by the explosion of off shore outsourcing and manufacturing in India has created immense opportunities for western business. But with a huge population of highly skilled and motivated English speaking graduates, India offers the international business world much more than just financial incentives. Cathy Wellings gives her top tips for business dealings in India.

"Indian people place very high value on relationships and will expect to spend time building trust and respect with new partners before doing business."

"Attitudes to time are more fluid in India than in the UK so you may find that meetings don't always start on time and that Indians take a more flexible approach to deadlines. "

Indian people place very high value on relationships and will expect to spend time building trust and respect with new partners before doing business. They tend to feel most comfortable working with those they know and trust, so it is essential that you invest time in developing solid professional and personal relationships.

Attitudes to time are more fluid in India than in the UK so you may find that meetings don't always start on time and that Indians take a more flexible approach to deadlines. Try not to show your frustrations and remember that business in India will often proceed at a slower pace.

India is a nation of contrasts with enormous geographic, linguistic, religious and cultural diversity. You will encounter some differences depending on where your Indian counterparts are located but the following tips will help you ensure that you maximise your opportunities for doing business in India.

Take time to make friendly small talk at the start of a meeting. Asking questions about your counterparts' families is a good way to build rapport and establish trust

Use the appropriate title when addressing your Indian colleagues

Business meetings usually start with a handshake but avoid shaking the hand of female colleagues unless initiated by them

Remember that 'yes' may not always mean 'yes'. Indians tend to avoid saying 'no' as it can cause them to lose face

Try to avoid expressing disagreement directly as this can also cause loss of face

Be patient. Business often takes longer in India but do your best not to show frustration or anger

When entertaining, bear in mind that most Indians are traditionally vegetarian and do not drink alcohol

Small gifts from your own culture are always appreciated but it is advisable not to give expensive gifts

Cathy Wellings is the culture and communication manager
at Communicaid. She oversees the design and delivery of more than 500 programmes in over 30 countries every year. She has lived and worked in France and Spain as well as the UK, training professionals in culture and communication skills.

For more information on Communicaid, visit the company's website

Read last months feature Taming the Dragon: Top tips for dealing with the Chinese market

We are running a country by country business etiquette guide, with Japan next on the list. If there is a country that you would like us to look at, please let me know: email editor@trainingzone.co.uk