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In business, the first thing we do when we meet someone is shake hands. While it seems simple enough, this “first impression” greeting sends a powerful message about you and your respect for others. For the most part, the western-style handshake is the accepted form of greeting in the international business world. 1. Your understanding of the subtle, and not-so-subtle, differences, as well as the traditional greetings of a country, conveys a great deal. It sends a message about how you view and value a culture and whether you respect your peers and potential partners. When doing business outside the United States, make sure you shake hands with everyone you greet and greet everyone in the room. 2. Also, be sure to shake hands upon arrival and departure. When meeting associates in the US, a firm handshake is preferred, but when traveling abroad, it's a different story. 3.
CHINA – While the western handshake is accepted, it is performed with a lighter grip and a pumping motion. Chinese also lower their eyes slightly as a sign of respect when meeting someone. 4.
JAPAN – Both handshaking and bowing are accepted forms of greeting in international business circles so take your lead from the person you are meeting. If shaking hands, do so lightly. If you are greeted with a bow, respond by bowing in kind.
RUSSIA – Russians usually use only one firm handshake when meeting a guest. 5. Russian men customarily kiss their guest's cheeks (men and women alike) while women reserve such intimacies for other Russians and simply shake hands with foreigners.
FRANCE – Shake hands with one brisk stroke upon arrival and departure and make sure to shake hands with everyone.