Category: Localization

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Localization: Training and Development in Poland

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn

As we continue our journey around the world, let's explore some common cultural facts about Poles and their expectations when it comes to training and development.

Test Your Knowledge of Polish Culture

  1. The name "Poland" is a descriptor of the country's geography. Does it mean:
    1. The borderlands?
    2. The hill country?
    3. The flatlands?
  2. True or False? Polish businesspeople often speak German.
  3. True or False? Prussian is also a common language in Poland.
Quick Tips for Training & Development in Poland1:

  • Poland is a male-dominated society. Female trainers may find it hard to be taken seriously, even though women have been advancing into more predominant roles in recent years.
  • Polish is the official language, but many businesspeople speak German as well as English. Clarify language preferences before beginning your class. Just because most Poles can understand English does not mean it's the preferred language for training.
  • Catholicism is a highly predominant religion, with less than two percent of the population identifying with another religion. Approximately ten percent of Poles describe themselves as "nonreligious."
  • Security is a high priority for Poles, and they are determined to maintain their freedom after a difficult history with both Russia and Germany. As such, Poles tend to prize individualism and the contributions a person can make in larger groups as a whole.
  • Poland is a hierarchical society, and there is a tendency for decisions to be made at a higher level or by consensus of "privileged" individuals.
  • Truth is a combination of facts along with subjective feelings and personal relationships. An individual's religious ideologies also often come into play when making decisions.
  • Business appointments start and end on time.
  • Many Poles opt to not take a lunch break and to work straight through the day. "Work lunches" are often scheduled for around 4 or 5 p.m., and employees do not go back to work after taking lunch. Keep this in mind and clarify time expectations when determining your class schedule.
  • A local Polish advocate will go far when establishing new business relationships. Try to identify a champion of your initiative within the company or someone closely associated and respected through corporate connections.
  • Poles tend to be more soft-spoken than North Americans, and business attire is conservative professional.

Knowledge Answer from Above: 

  1. (c) Poland is mostly flat.
  2. True. Not much of a surprise, considering Poland's location along the German border.
  3. False. While once used, Prussian became extinct in the 1700's.
     
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training and Development in Panama

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
This week let's explore some common cultural facts about Panamanians and their expectations when it comes to Training and Development.

Test Your Knowledge of Panamanian Culture

  1. Is Panama part of Central America or Northern America?
  2. True or False? Panama has the same governmental structure as the United States, which includes a president and a vice president.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Panama1:

  • Public criticism is frowned upon, as Panamanians work diligently to maintain an image of harmony. Be careful not to criticize students or team members in public; pull them aside and address concerns privately, if needed.
  • Spanish is the official language, but English is commonly known. Training materials will likely be requested and better accepted in Spanish, even though English materials could be understood.
  • Many Panamanians are highly sensitive about the influence of the United States on their country–whether perceived or actual. Even if influence by the United States seems apparent, don't mention it, as the commentary will often be met with disdain.
  • Truth is strongly biased towards emotions rather than logic.
  • Decision-making is commonly done in light of its effect on the group as a whole, and personal relationships are a vital part of daily life. Trust is freely given, but you may experience resistance as a trainer from the United States.
  • While there is a wide gap between social classes, this difference is typically accepted by older generations. Younger professionals are starting to fight this cultural norm as they seek higher levels of success and affluence for their families.
  • Machismo is prevalent, so students may inherently respond better to male trainers or leaders. To overcome this stigma, women can emphasize their role as part of a committed team.

Knowledge Answer from Above:

  1. Central America.
  2. False. Panama is a multi-party republic and includes a president and two vice presidents.
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training & Development in Norway

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
As we make our way towards Scandinavia, let's explore some common cultural facts about Norwegians and their expectations when it comes to Training & Development.
  
Test your knowledge of Norwegian Culture

  1. True or False? Norway remained neutral during World War II.
  2. True or False? Norway is a monarchy.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Norway1:

  • As members of the least punctual culture in northern Europe, Norwegians often run 10 to 15 minutes late for appointments. Be prepared to wait, but always arrive promptly yourself. While it's common for meetings to begin a bit behind schedule, be sure to end your classes on time, especially if they run until the end of the workday.
  • While English is widely known in Norway, the official language is Norwegian and may be the preferred language for use in your training materials. Even when fluent in English, many Norwegians prefer written communication in their native tongue.
  • More analytical than emotional, Norwegians tend to view outside information cautiously, and they are often slow to make decisions.
  • Communication is typically blunt and straightforward, and it's the cultural norm to accept statements at face value.
  • Individual freedom and independence are highly valued. As such, any kind of debt is avoided, as it's viewed as an impediment to one's freedom.
  • Family units are perceived as a way to maintain stability and structure in life. Norway's social welfare system perpetuates this support as well and is a great source of pride for the Norwegian people.
  • Gender roles are greatly minimized in Norwegian culture, as both parents share childcare responsibilities and women have great freedom in behavior and personal or professional aspirations.
  • Norwegians are quiet people, so avoid speaking too loudly or boisterously.
  • Talking with your hands in your pockets is considered too casual for business interactions, and the American "okay" gesture is perceived as rude.
  • Although Norway is a very affluent country, gift-giving is not acceptable in business interactions due to strict anti-bribery laws.

Knowledge Answers from Above:

  1. True. Although it was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II.
  2. True. It's a constitutional monarchy with the king as chief of state.
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training & Development in the Netherlands

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
Ah, the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Today let's explore some common cultural facts about the Dutch and their expectations when it comes to training and development.
  
Test your Knowledge of Dutch Culture

  1. True or False? Another name for the Netherlands is Holland.
  2. True or False? The Netherlands ranks among the top 12 trading nations in the world.
  3. True or False? The Netherlands is part of NATO.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in the Netherlands1:

  • Guard your words carefully. The Dutch highly value honesty and will take your statements at face value. Avoid exaggeration or misinformation as well. Make sure every point is substantiated by real data.
  • While Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, English is also widely understood. Find out from your in-country contacts if translation of your training materials is preferred.
  • Outside information is often perceived as risky and viewed with caution. Greater importance is given to facts over emotion. Subjective arguments are not accepted as valid reasoning for decision-making.
  • Decision-making is slow and involved, but resolutions are final.
  • While it's difficult as a perceived outsider to form relationships with the Dutch, you'll find friendship and mutual respect go a long way in gaining buy-in from your students and local contacts.
  • The Dutch favor hierarchy with clearly defined roles and structure. 
  • Compliments and accolades are paid to the group as a whole, not to individual participants. In the same way, individuals are not singled-out for mistakes-rather, issues are attributed to a faulty system or failed oversight. If you must address an individual's achievements or shortcomings directly, do so in private.
  • Consistent with their structured culture, punctuality is of great importance to the Dutch. Planning is a key component of daily life, and time must be used efficiently. In fact, people who arrive late may be assumed to be incompetent or untrustworthy since they are apparently unable to manage their time.
  • Spontaneity is not a virtue.
  • Dutch communication is straightforward and professional, with preference given to efficiency over pleasantries.
  • In some industries, employees with higher rank may dress more casually than lower-level staff. Executives may dress in jeans and a button-up shirt while support staff are in suits.

Knowledge Answers from Above:

  1. False. Holland, which includes Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and the Hague, is only a part of the Netherlands.
  2. True.
  3. True. It's also part of the European Community.

References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training and Development in New Zealand

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn

As cold weather looms in the United States, our friends in New Zealand are preparing for the summer season. Let's take a warm excursion to the Southern Hemisphere to explore some common cultural facts about New Zealanders and their expectations when it comes to training and development.

New Zealand Trivia:

  1. True or False? New Zealand was the first country to grant women the right to vote.
  2. True or False? New Zealanders refer to themselves as "Kiwis."

Tips for Training & Development in New Zealand1:

  • Truth is based on objective facts; emotions and hype are not deemed appropriate in business presentations. Stick to the facts when developing your training materials.
  • Business interactions are more formal until credibility and rapport are established.
  • Despite their proximity, do not confuse Aussie culture with that of the Kiwis. They are entirely different people groups.
  • The Maori tribespeople are the earliest known inhabitants of New Zealand, and Maori is still one of the official languages. But with English being the other official language, most Maoris speak English fluently.
  • Kiwi executives value individual achievement and are internally motivated. As such, many experience anxiety regarding professional growth or pending deadlines.
  • Expertise is greatly valued, so be sure to communicate your corporate and personal achievements to demonstrate aptitude in the subject matter you're training.
  • Tardiness is a serious faux pas; even social events start on time.
  • A first-name basis is common in New Zealand business interactions, but wait to refer to your counterparts by their first names until invited to do so-or at least until they set an obvious informal tone in your interactions.

Trivia Answer from Above:

  1. True. In 1893.
  2. True, and the kiwi–the flightless bird, not the fruit–has become a national emblem.

References:1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.

Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.

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Localization: Training and Development in Mexico

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn

Because Mexico is  our neighbor to the south, Mexican culture may be familiar to most Americans. Whether you will find this information new or just a refresher course, let's explore some common cultural facts about Mexicans and their expectations when it comes to Training and Development.

Test Your Knowledge of Mexican Culture

  1. True or False. The official name of Mexico translates to "The United States of Mexico."
  2. True or False. Mexico's official religion is Catholic.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Mexico1:

  • Mexican communications include elaborate and extensive demonstrations of courtesy. Culturally, many Mexicans find it difficult to say "no," so they may agree to decisions or tasks without fully understanding the expectations but will avoid asking clarifying questions. You may find that those with higher levels of education may be more prone to request further details.
  • While generally deemed acceptable in business interactions, intense constant eye contact may be interpreted as aggressive or threatening in other settings. During casual interactions, for example, intermittent eye contact is more appropriate.
  • Authority figures are commonly perceived as corrupt, so most Mexicans will be skeptical of those in positions of leadership. Overcome this by being warm, personable and courteous. Demonstrate trust and goodwill while building relationships and maintaining professionalism.
  • Mexicans are typically risk-averse and highly resistant to change. Subjective feelings on a topic guide an individual's perspective on what is true or right. Generally speaking, however, those with higher levels of education will give greater weight to objective facts than straight emotions or gut feelings when making decisions.
  • Family is highly valued, and individuals will commonly make decisions based on the best interests of their family unit. Even with such a prevalence of machismo in Mexican culture, the mother is typically viewed as the central figure in the family due to her protective nature. However, the father may still garner the most respect.
  • Business opportunities rely heavily upon building relationships, with relationships taking priority over expertise. Take time to get to know your students and key decision-makers in advance, especially when interacting with high-ranking professionals or governmental officials, as this will aid in their receptivity to your message.
  • Priorities in time are given to building relationships, not to necessarily ending the meeting on schedule. While business meetings often end late, they will typically begin on time. So, be sure you are punctual. For casual gatherings, everything will typically start and run later than planned.
  • As relationships develop, your Mexican counterpart may transition to using first names when you communicate. Wait for him or her to make this change; otherwise, use educational or business titles to address each other.
  • Business settings are more relaxed than here in the States, and decision-making is a lengthy process. Build buffers for delays into your class timelines to allow for multiple conversations. Once a decision has been made, implementation processes are usually faster than here in the States, as Mexican businesses face less requirements and paperwork.
  • Be mindful not to publicly criticize anyone, as individual dignity and respect are highly valued.
  • High-end sharp-looking visuals are appreciated, so be sure to use quality graphics in your training materials.

Answers The Trivia Above:

  1. True.
  2. False. Mexico does not have an official religion, although Roman Catholic beliefs are very prevalent.

References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training and Development in Japan

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
This week, let's explore some common cultural facts about the Japanese and their expectations when it comes to training and development. If you're reading after business hours, you may enjoy this post alongside a meal of sake and sushi to get you in the appropriate mood. 

Test your Knowledge of Japanese Culture

  1. True or False. The Japanese are known for strong displays of affection and emotion.
  2. True or False. In Japan, the head of the government is the emperor.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Japan1:

  • Japanese is the official language of Japan–go figure–and this language contains extensive nuances and subtleties. Students begin learning English at a young age but are typically more proficient in reading English than in speaking English. You will be well served to have all training materials in Japanese–both for learner comprehension and as a sign of consideration and respect.
  • The Japanese do not like being "lumped into" or related to other Asian cultures. Be careful when selecting images for your training materials that you do not assume Chinese models or visuals will play well in a Japanese audience.
  • Foreigners are not readily accepted in Japan, and Japanese people tend to be protective of their culture and heritage. Do your best to demonstrate respect towards their society and practices whenever possible.
  • Mistakes are expected to be followed by an apology, whether from an individual or a corporation. To neglect to offer an apology will diminish your credibility and has the potential to seriously damage your company's brand.
  • Decision-making tends to be subjective while still adhering to traditional values. Consensus is of great value, so individuals may suddenly change their opinion for the sake of maintaining harmony within the group. Seek to build group buy-in as quickly as possible. On a related note, offer praise and recognition to a group as a whole, rather than singling out individuals.
  • Given the culture's somewhat collectivistic perspective, individual actions are a reflection upon the group and family.
  • "Saving face" is huge in Japanese culture, so you'll want to avoid the risk of embarrassing your Japanese counterparts at all costs.
  • Negatively phrased questions will result in miscommunication. For example, the question "Doesn't this product sound amazing?" will be answered as "no", meaning the product does indeed sound amazing, rather than with a "yes" response as expected in the States.
  • The workplace is a serious environment. Humorous stories or jokes in your training materials will be seen as out of place or misunderstood entirely.
  • The American "okay" sign means "money" in Japan, so be intentional with its usage in your materials. Better yet, remove it entirely, as this image is problematic in many cultures.

Trivia Answers to the Questions Above

  1. False. You're much better off using a "poker face" as a demonstration of self-control. Maintain a slight smile even if you are upset, and don't be afraid of silence in a conversation, especially when negotiating.
  2. False. The emperor is the chief of state, and the prime minister is the head of the government.
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions. And if you love Jen's articles, check out her new, live and online Localization mini courses.
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Localization: Training and Development in Italy

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 

We love their wine, culture, and food. But what do we know about Italians and their expectations when it comes to training and development? If your answer is "not much," keep reading!

Test Your Knowledge of Italian Culture

  1. The modern Italian language evolved from what region in Italy?
    1. Sardinia
    2. Tuscany
    3. Rome
  2. Who is the head of the Italian government?
  3. True or False. The official religion of the Republic of Italy is Roman Catholic.

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Italy1:

  • Italians are fans of refined and formal interactions, appreciating a dignified and smooth approach. Out of formality, do not use first names unless invited to do so.
  • Rapport is huge in Italy. Spend time preparing the factual details of your training, but also allocate an appropriate amount of time to invest in developing a strong relationship. The standing of your relationship will determine the level of interest in and receptivity to your training.
  • English is spoken by many business people even though Italian is the official language. Be sure to clarify if there is a language preference for your training materials as many companies opt to offer training in Italian even if their employees are proficient in English.
  • Even with a substantial religious background, Italians tend to use subjective feelings to make decisions rather than ideology or objective facts. As such, you may find it hard to move learners to a new perspective or methodology even if your reasoning is sound.
  • As a foreigner, you are expected to be punctual for meetings, although your Italian counterparts may run behind. It's also common for the most important person in the meeting to arrive last. The further north you travel, the more efficiency you'll find in business interactions and schedules.
  • The Italian view of time is that it's best managed when spent well, not necessarily requiring that appointments start or end on schedule. They value building relationships and are also heavy proponents of a work-life balance, favoring more "life" versus the American favoring of "work".
  • Respect for authority must be demonstrated, and one's authority often travels with the individual, not necessarily his or her title.
  • Even if your host comments negatively about Italian culture or history, be careful not to chime in. Italians can say things about their own country that outsiders cannot. Instead, safe topics of conversation include art, food, wine, and sports.
  • Excited and expressive gesturing is common and expected.

Italian Culture Answers:

  1. (b) Tuscany. The Tuscan dialect was also the preferred dialect of some of Italy's greatest writers, including Dante and Boccaccio.
  2. The prime minister. The president is the chief of state.
  3. False. While a majority of Italians are Roman Catholic in heritage, there is no official religion.
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
If you like Jen's articles, you'll love her live, online Localization classes. Check out her mini-course schedule here.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions.
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Localization: Training and Development in Ireland

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
Most of us have limited awareness of Irish culture beyond Saint Patrick's Day and leprechauns. Never fear! Today's article explores some common cultural facts about the Irish and their expectations when it comes to training and development.

Test Your Knowledge of Irish Culture

  1. True or False. Ireland has one official language: Irish.
  2. True or False. The Irish are known as a cold harsh people, aka "the Fighting Irish".

Quick Tips for Training & Development in Ireland1:

  • Strains of pessimism run deep in the Irish due to hard times throughout history. You may struggle to communicate optimistic outlooks when training learners in this country.
  • Surprisingly, Irish is a second language to those who are fluent in it. Irish is a required subject to study in school and is necessary for careers in academia and civil service, but the native language for Irish inhabitants is English.
  • The Irish tend to be fairly open to risk and make decisions based on a combination of facts and emotion.
  • Irish culture does not place significant value on wealth, and many people believe the poor should receive the same respect as those who are rich and successful.
  • Irish expect punctuality but tend to be slightly more relaxed than the English when it comes to time. Deadlines may be interpreted as approximations or suggestions, so be clear on your expectations or include a buffer in your timeline.
  • While Northern Ireland is part of the UK, never use English or British symbols in your training materials. Some helpful examples include; the British flag, Royal Guardsmen, double-decker buses, or red post boxes.
  • In training, sports analogies will go over well, especially if you reference popular Irish teams.
  • Avoid controversial, political, or religious topics in casual conversation. If someone else broaches the subject, refrain from commenting unless voicing areas you agree with. Many older generations are especially conservative, and you risk alienating your audience if you disagree.
  • In general, the Irish refrain from exaggerated gestures. Be mindful of this cultural trait, as emphatic gesturing may not translate well to this audience.

Culture Answers:

  1. False. Ireland actually has two official languages: Irish and English.
  2. False. Many Irish people are extremely welcoming of strangers and are known to strike up conversations on the street. Irish friendliness and hospitality are easily recognized characteristics of this culture. The "Fighting Irish" is actually Notre Dame's athletic nickname.
References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions.
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Localization: Training and Development in India

by Jen Weaver Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn
 
While it failed to be renewed for another season, the 2010 NBC show "Outsourced" shed a comical light on some of the cultural nuances to doing business in India. Miss the show? Never fear. In this article we'll explore some common cultural facts about Indians and their expectations when it comes to training and development.
 
Test your Knowledge of Indian Culture
  1. Match the old westernized city name with its present replacement.
    Colonial Name
    Current Name
    Calcutta
    Bombay
    Madras
    Mumbai
    Chennai
    Kolkata
  2. What two world religions were born in India?
Quick Tips for Training & Development in India1:
  • Resist the urge to change "Indian" to "Native American" out of political correctness. Aboriginal tribes in North America are Native Americans, and individuals from India are Indians.
  • Hindi is the national language, although English is extremely common especially given the high volume of U.S. jobs outsourced to India presently. Depending on your audience, it's likely you won't need to translate training materials, but pay close attention to learner retention and quiz scores. Students learn best in their own language. If your trainees aren't scoring as well as their native English-speaking counterparts, you may want to pilot translated materials to see if results improve.
  • Most Indians are Hindu, a religion that supports their social caste system. Many Hindus are vegetarians and won't wear leather, as cows are regarded as sacred. A smaller percentage of Indians are Muslim and do not eat pork. Keep this in mind when selecting meals, attire, and images or examples in your training materials.
  • If you're training on location in India, be sure to drink bottled water and avoid eating raw produce that is at risk of being contaminated. Many travelers face digestive issues from overindulgence in spicy food, so come prepared with necessary medications. The last thing you want is to search for a pharmacy in the middle of the night in an unfamiliar country.
  • When it comes to decision-making, objective facts are less persuasive than appealing to individual feelings and religious beliefs.
  • Relationships are more important than vocational experience; however, higher levels of education are still highly valued.
  • Another common cultural norm is fatalism–the belief that all events are predetermined and, therefore, inevitable. This contributes to passivity in decision-making and a casual approach to time and schedules.
  • Male chauvinism abounds, and women do not have equal privileges. If your training team includes female instructors, be mindful that this may impact learner receptivity. Also, orthodox Muslim men will not touch women. To be safe, it's ideal to wait for the Indian representative to offer his hand to shake. The word "Namaste" is also an acceptable greeting as a replacement for shaking hands.
  • Standing with your hands on your hips is seen as angry and aggressive. Pointing with your finger is also rude, and you may notice many Indians pointing with their chin instead.
  • Never point your feet at someone, as feet are considered unclean. If your shoes or feet happen to touch another person, be sure to apologize.
  • Black and white are deemed unlucky colors, while green, red, and yellow are considered lucky. These are good perspectives to keep in mind when branding training materials or selecting gifts for Indian counterparts.
 Trivia Answers:
  1. Mumbai is the present name for what was once Bombay. Chennai is the present name for Madras, and Kolkata is the present name for Calcutta.
  2. Hinduism and Buddhism.
 References:
 
1Morrison, Terri, & Conaway, Wayne A. (2006). Kiss, bow, or shake hands (2nd ed.). Avon: Adams Media.
 
***
Developing international training and development materials? Contact Jen at Carmazzi Global Solutions.