Multi Cultural

Turbine Energy International

From: Event Planner

To: Whom it may concern

Subject: PROTOCOL FOR MEETING WITH GREECE AND SOUTH KOREA.

        In the upcoming meeting we will be meeting with two companies, one from South Korea, and one from Greece. The following information will provide you with the information that you need to breech any cultural differences and to provide the confidence needed to have a productive comfortable, productive experience for everyone involved.

Greece: When initially meeting it is acceptable to give and receive a firm handshake for males, for women it is the norm to give and receive a light handshake. This is the desired means of an introduction as anything more is reserved for family or close acquaintances. Do not be offended if they are speaking loudly this is acceptable and is the regular tone that people from Greece use. When using hand gestures while speaking avoid extending your hand with all five fingers open towards an individual this is considered offensive and should be avoided. Dress while attending business meetings will be business formal, which should encompass a full suit for men and for women suits or business styled skirts with blouses. Business causal or jeans and shirts will not be acceptable for formal business meetings.  When addressing the potential partners from Greece it is very important to use a formal title such as Mr. Mrs. followed by the last name that was given. It is acceptable to use Mr. or Mrs. followed by a first name, but what for them to give you the go ahead before you use this type of communication.

South Korea: On initially meeting the potential partners from South Korea it is customary for men to shake hands while preforming a slight bow while maintaining eye contact through out, for women it is common to shake hands but a slight bow is also acceptable.  After rendering the appropriate greeting it to be expected that the South Koreans will keep at least a one arms distance from the individual, this is not a sign of disrespect so do not take it as such.  If you receive something from an individual receive it with both hands this is a sign of respect in their culture.  When trying to get someone’s attention do not do so by using your hand palm up this is taken as a sign of disrespect this way of getting attention is reserved for animals.  Attire for the meetings will be the ultimately the same as with the Greece, business formal no jeans or such. Dress should be conservative in nature no outlandish ties or anything of that nature.  During meetings adhere to addressing the most senior member of team first, hierarchy is very important to them and will make for a easier conversation without any distension. If negotiations are required do not go at it to hard or overdue it.  Not looking bad is very important to them and upstaging an individual should be avoided.