What is the business etiquette in India?

Indians are strongly guided by their respective religions and their shared values. Respect for elders and hierarchy are core values that permeate all aspects of Indian society. Indians also place huge importance on family and community. And as in many Asian cultures, the concept of saving face – avoiding blame or any type of shameful situation – can influence decision-making processes and affect your business dealings in India.

Building good business relationships and trust are important in India, so you should expect to spend plenty of time at meetings, dinners and social clubs with potential business partners. In a first meeting, let the Indian host guide the initial stages of the conversation. As in some other Asian cultures, Indians like to develop a personal connection first. So expect to be asked – and prepare to ask your own questions – about family.

A handshake is the standard way to greet men and women in a business setting, whatever their age or seniority. When meeting with small independent retailers in non-urban areas, you may be greeted by your potential partner with the word namaste (pronounced nah-mas-tay). You may reciprocate by repeating the word, with the palms of your hands together and a slight bow or nod of the head. Often people will slightly nod or bow their heads when shaking hands, particularly with senior figures. The left hand is considered unclean and as such, should never be used alone to offer or accept a handshake, drink, food, money, gifts or business cards.

Indians tend to value their personal space and are generally not prone to making much physical contact. However, it is not uncommon for Indian men to engage in friendly back patting. This is a sign of friendship and a positive signal for your working relationship. Indians are generally expressive and use body language to convey messages that are not always verbal.

Showing the soles of your feet or your shoes, or pointing your feet towards anyone, is considered highly disrespectful and insulting in India, as is stepping on or over papers, books, religious offerings on the ground – and especially people.

It is rude to touch anyone’s head. Pointing with fingers is also disrespectful; if you must point, use your thumb, with the rest of your fingers curled into a fist, palm facing upward.

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