Singapore Job Guide > Workplace Etiquette Business etiquette around the world Don't step on the toes of your overseas business partners from Indonesia and Japan if you want to seal that deal Written by Goh Mei Yi - November 5, 2008 .............................................................. INDONESIA For men, it is conventional to shake hands with everyone at the start of a meeting. A man, however, should not extend his hand to an Indonesian woman. Wait for her cue. If she initiates it, then a handshake is appropriate. Women, do not offer a handshake to an Indonesian man. However, should a man extend his hand, always shake hands. Men, do not offer handshakes to an Indonesian woman. Reciprocate, however, if she initiates it. Men should wear a coat and tie until it is appropriate to dress more casually. Follow the lead of those you are meeting. Women must always cover their upper arms when wearing a casual blouse, and the hems of skirts should sit below the knee. Shorts are never acceptable for women or men. Jeans may be worn for very casual occasions. Arrive on time for meetings. Meetings traditionally start late, and your Indonesian business associates will probably arrive late, but do not comment on the lateness of your associates. Never stand with your back to an elderly person or high-ranking official. As you enter a room, be aware of the people in that room with you. Always rise when your host or hostess enters the room. Present business cards to each of your Indonesian associates before beginning business discussions. Your right hand holds the card, with your left hand supporting your right wrist. Your card will be received with both hands. Treat any card received with the utmost respect. Don't fold or write on the card or put it in your pocket or wallet. Take time to carefully read the card. During meals, leaving food on your plate signifies impoliteness, so eat everything you are served. Eating, passing food or anything else should only be done with the right hand. Even if you are left-handed, try to use your right hand when eating. JAPAN Don't grab your host's hand at the first meeting and give it a hearty shake. Many Japanese seldom shake hands and are uncomfortable doing so. Punctuality is important. Always arrive 10 minutes early for a meeting, and even earlier if the meeting will be with senior executives. If you are greeted with a bow, return with a bow as low as the one you received. How low you bow determines the status of the relationship between you and the other individual. Lower your eyes and keep your palms flat against your thighs. The business card should be given after the bow. In a business situation, business cannot begin until the meishi exchange process is complete. Business cards are given and received with great ceremony and importance. Examine the card carefully as a show of respect. During a meeting, place the business cards on the table in front of you in the order in which people are seated. When the meeting is over, put the business cards in a business card case or a portfolio. Never write on a card. Show greatest respect to the oldest members in the group. The most senior Japanese person will be seated furthest from the door, with the rest of the people in descending rank until the most junior person is seated closest to the door. Men should wear dark-coloured, conservative business suits. But don't wear a black suit, white shirt and black tie, because that's funeral attire. Women's dress should be conservative and accessories kept minimal. Women shouldn't wear trousers in a business situation as some Japanese men find it offensive. Let the host order and pay for the meal. If you do take your host out, insist upon paying. The Japanese will refuse, but insist anyway. Never pour yourself a drink; always allow someone else to do it for you. Please feel free to share the URL of this article with your friends and colleagues.