The American motto is “time is money,” and yet before discussing important matters, it is customary for them to talk for about 10 minutes on general topics, for example, about hobbies or sports (but never about politics).
The handshake at the moment of greeting should be short and firm, while looking the person in the eyes. In general, a rather free form of greeting is acceptable: it is considered normal and is not perceived as disrespect. People can say a couple of standard phrases to each other like "How are you", "Nice to meet you", etc.
You shouldn't leave too long pauses during business conversations: this has an unpleasant, repulsive effect.
If you introduce someone new, say luxembourg email list a few words about them.
If the business meeting is scheduled in a restaurant, you will be shown to your seat (do not rush to settle yourself). There may even be cards with names on the table: Americans usually plan their seating arrangements in advance.
Perhaps the most important point is punctuality. Being late in America is unacceptable.
Germany. Strict adherence to business etiquette, accuracy in everything.
The dress code here may differ in different companies depending on the accepted corporate guidelines. But there are also general principles for all. For example, wearing a formal suit with a tie is mandatory for employees of banks, insurance companies and other serious institutions. Shirts, like ties, are allowed to be bright. Germans pay great attention to shoes - they must be perfectly clean.
Business etiquette requirements in Germany:
Handshakes are used to greet and say goodbye to both men and women. Ladies' hands are not kissed, as this is too familiar a gesture for Germans (which is quite acceptable in Russia).
Here they love precision and regard any violations regarding the fulfillment of contract terms (in terms of deadlines, volumes, etc.) as disrespect.
Addressing partners is exclusively as "You", plus adding "Herr", "Frau", a title (if the person has one). Only relatives or people who have long-standing friendships can say "You" to each other.
Much attention is paid to the regulations in business communication. All planned issues are discussed in a strictly established order. Details are extremely important for Germans, so they discuss each transaction very carefully, down to the smallest detail.
An important point: it is not customary for Germans to give business gifts.
China. Restrained behavior, observance of traditions.
In China, they adhere to foreign rules of business dress code, that is, national clothes are not worn for negotiations. Here, they wear business suits, but at the same time, they observe some of their own conventions. For example, ties or brightly colored shirts are not welcome. Muted tones are preferable, but the shirt can have short sleeves (or no sleeves at all).
Dress code for a business woman is a blouse under a suit (pants or skirt). In summer, sarafans are acceptable, but in subdued colors and strict styles. You can wear jewelry, but not too much, for example, wear a ring with earrings. Foreigners should not show up for negotiations in a national Chinese costume: it looks funny and only causes negativity.
Business etiquette standards in China:
No lateness. In China, punctuality is associated with virtue.
Here people greet and say goodbye with a handshake, but bows (from the shoulder) are also allowed.
The oldest participants in the meeting begin the greeting, because age is highly respected in China.
You should address each other by your last name, adding the words "xiangsheng" (for men) and "nyuishi" (for women). Only very close people call each other by their first names.
The Chinese are a very reserved people, and they rarely smile when introducing themselves, but this is not a sign of disrespect. They generally do not show any emotions on their faces, so a poker face is almost a mandatory requirement when negotiating.
Important : in China, you need to arrange a meeting in advance (about three months). If the company doesn't know anything about you yet, you should act through an intermediary. And after contact is established, you need to provide information about your company and state what results you expect from the negotiations.