TTI Transculture Training International Consulting in Toronto offers these tips for dealing with clients of other cultures:

> Hand gestures have different meanings in different cultures. The thumbs-up is offensive in Islamic countries. The OK gesture means “zero” or “worthless” in France and “money” in Japan; in Germany, Russia and Brazil, it is considered an indecent gesture. The “goodbye” hand wave is insulting in Greece.

It is better just to use words.

> Prolonged direct eye contact is considered rude or even aggressive in some Asian cultures.

> Just say, “No.” In India, shaking the head from side to side means “yes.”

> When dining with a client from the Middle East, eat using your right hand. (The left is used for hygiene only.)

> Treat Asian and Arab elders with extra respect; stand when elders enter a room and serve them first at a meal.

> Do not wear shoes into Asian or Middle Eastern homes. Showing the sole of your shoe is considered rude in Arab culture.

> Don’t attempt to shake the hand of an Arab or an Orthodox Jew of the opposite sex. Also, to avoid contact when presenting a document, place the document on the table and allow the client to pick it up.

> Do not use first names of Asian or Middle-Eastern clients until invited to do so.

> Formality is revered by the Japanese. Laughing could be seen as a sign of insecurity or embarrassment. Crossed arms or closed eyes indicate the person is listening closely. Silence during conversation is acceptable.

— LAURA BOBAK