Culture and customs include how people live, role expectations, and food practices. When cultural differences exist, it is essential to recognize these differences. Knowing how to speak and act within another culture’s expectations is vital for a pleasant trip, business engagement, and personal safety.

Egocentrism is a term that describes someone who views their own culture as superior to others. Cultures are different, and people everywhere value their customs and way of life. Acknowledging this and avoiding egocentric words and actions will help you with your personal or business trip.  For example, avoid assigning value to a culture: positive or negative, better or worse, right or wrong. When we are unaware that we are projecting our cultural values on other cultures, it can detract from a personal trip or miss a business opportunity.

Being culturally sensitive is essential to making a good impression, acting confidently, and staying safe.  Understanding other cultures will enhance your trip.

What Can I Do?

Study the culture, before you arrive. Simple facts about a country and daily life will improve the quality of your trip.

• Greetings. Know how people greet each other, such as handshakes, embraces, and bowing. Many Mediterranean and Latin American countries consider an embrace and kiss (or two) normal. Additionally, know who should initiate physical contact: In many countries with Muslim populations, it is appropriate to wait for the woman to initiate physical contact, such as shaking hands or embracing.

• Language. Basic language understanding, such as “hello,” “please,” and “thank you,” will assist with gaining immediate respect and gratitude.

• Clothing. Americans tend to stand out with their clothing. Americans tend to dress down for events, while many other cultures dress up. For example, shorts are not common in public in many parts of the world, even in summer heat. Wearing clothing with an American flag will usually set you apart negatively.

• Tipping. Understand tipping culture. Know whether to tip or not, how much to tip, and the appropriate method. In some countries, it may be just as inappropriate to leave too large a tip as it is not to leave a tip in the United States

• Shoes. Many Asian countries consider it dirty and disrespectful not to remove your shoes before entering a building or home.

• Talk to someone who has traveled to your destination. They will give you a foreigner’s perspective. They can also recommend places to visit, stay, or avoid.

• Respect Local Customs. Understanding cultural differences is vital to a successful trip; your understanding is crucial when travelling abroad.

• Communicate Appropriately. Approach people in a friendly, non-threatening way. Use simple phrases like “please,” thank you,” and “hello.” These will go a long way to earning the respect of every culture. Don’t get upset or angry when things don’t go as anticipated. If you don’t speak the local language, talk in English slowly and clearly, avoiding idioms and slang. Increasing your volume does not assist with understanding and will be viewed as disrespectful/degrading.

• Be Aware. Don’t fool yourself: Americans tend to stand out in most cultures. You are unlikely to blend into the background in most countries. Recognizing this is an important aspect of a safe trip. The more you stand out, the greater the risk to your person or business deal.

Know what to expect before you arrive. PFC Safeguards offers a full range of travel support and area studies to keep you fully informed of differences in cultures, ensuring your trip is a success.

Contact us if we can assist!