How to Do Business in 12 Asian Countries 23. What will you need to know in 2010 or 2020 to work in Asia? As Hans Koehler pointed out in his Preface, we live in changing times. In this century China and India are changing the economic balance of the world. But many of the cultural tenets presented in Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands: Asia took hundreds or thousands of years to develop. These stable precepts help us understand why people behave differently around the world, and they will help you to avoid global marketing faux pas | Thailand 179 offered again accept it is considered an honor to have the last bit of food. To entertain a small group take them to an excellent restaurant in a prestigious hotel. For a large group arrange a buffet supper. Always include Thai wives in business dinners. Expect to eat with Western-style forks and spoons. Keep the fork in the left hand and the spoon in the right reverse this if you are left-handed . Cut with the side of the spoon not the fork. Use the fork to push food onto the spoon. Drink tea or beer with meals. Drink water only if you have seen it being poured from a bottle. Many Thais smoke after dinner but do not be the first to light up. Always pass cigarettes around to the men at the table. Although traditional Thai women do not smoke or drink in public it is acceptable for Western women to do so. Cultural Note Monks are not permitted to touch the opposite sex. If you are female do not expect them to shake your hand. If you need to give something to a monk place it in front of him or give it to a man to pass along. Monks are not expected to thank you for a contribution either however you always thank them for providing you with a means to better your life today and in the future. PROTOCOL_ Greetings The graceful traditional Thai greeting is called a wai. Press your hands together as though in prayer keeping arms and elbows close to your body and bow your head to touch your fingers. The height of your hands is related to the level of deference or respect you are giving to the person you greet. The higher your hands the more respect you show. A wai is used for both meeting and departing. Younger people are expected to greet an elder first and they may or may not return the gesture. 180 Kiss Bow or Shake Hands Asia You do not have to wai children. Thais will shake hands with Westerners but they will be pleased if you greet them with their traditional greeting. When introduced to a monk never touch him
