India


 * Business in India:**




 * Population:** 1,150,000,000 (1.15 billion)
 * Official Language**: Hindi
 * Greeting:**


 * It is customary for Indians to greet each other using namaste, which is when one would bring their palms together at chest level and bow slightly. However this is considered a sign of understanding of the Indian culture and etiquette so it would be more appropriate for someone who is less familiar with the culture to begin a meeting with a handshake.


 * Always greet the most senior person present first and begin meetings with small talk or pleasant "getting to know you" conversation
 * this could include things like
 * Meetings:**
 * At the first business meeting business cards should be exchanged.
 * one side should have a Hindi translation as a sign of respect
 * give and receive cards with your right hand
 * put the card away respectfully, not just in a pocket
 * Always arrange meetings in advance.
 * not around any holidays
 * arrange meetings in writing then confirm by phone
 * be on time
 * Avoid heat: schedual between october and march
 * General:**
 * It is important to keep in mind that Indians incorporate more than just statistics into their business.
 * Religion along with other things play a major role in discussions as well


 * it is important to remain, patient, and respectful at all times
 * once a deal or agreement has been made it must be honored completely.
 * this is sometimes followed by a celebration dinner or a smoke
 * **Other things to keep in mind:**
 * currency: the Indian rupee
 * [[image:http://www.indianfox.com/wp-content/uploads/INDIANFOX.COM-DYK-03-09-2010-1.jpg width="288" height="181"]]
 * Feet are seen as unclean so never show the bottom of your shoe, so when you sit keep both feet on the floor and don't cross your leg. Also never touch someone with your foot and if you do, apaologize imediately.
 * when you leave you do not say a group goodbye, you must say goodbye to each person individually
 * Whistleing can be seen as rude
 * Winking can be concidered a sexual proposition or simply an insult
 * It is important to keep in mind that Hindus do not eat beef and muslims do not eat pork
 * Do not touch someone elses head, it is concidered the seat of the soul
 * Direct and continuous eye contact can be seen as intrusive
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