When traveling to India on business, there is some proper etiquette that you’ll want to follow. It’s important to be aware of this as the customs and traditions here in the United States are a lot different than what you’ll see in India. Understanding the proper etiquette in India is very important, as it shows that you have taken the time to learn more about the culture, and, on top of that, it is also a sign of respect.
Ready to learn more about business travel etiquette in India? Here are some tips to help you during your next trip.
1. Keep Your Distance
In business situations in India, you should stand at least an arm’s length away from anyone you are talking to. Any closer would be an invasion of their personal space. Try to keep this in mind while you’re in business meetings as it could be considered rude or disrespectful if you get too close to the people around you.
2. Don’t Touch Anyone’s Head
It’s unlikely you would do this, but if you’re tempted for any reason, remember that people in India do not like their heads touched. The head is considered sacred, and touching it for any reason would not be tolerated.
3. Always Use Your Right Hand
When shaking hands, gesturing to something, eating… whatever you’re doing, do it with your right hand. The left hand is considered unclean, and you will be seen as disrespectful if you decide to use your left hand for any reason whatsoever. If you’re left handed, we suggest practicing using your right hand before going on your trip so that you get used to it.
4. Mind the Gender Gap
In a business setting, it is appropriate for men to shake hands with men and for women to shake hands with women. Many men in India will not touch a woman they don’t know, as this would be considered inappropriate. If you’re a woman doing business in India, it is probably best to wait and see if your male counterparts extend their hand to you before reaching out your hand first.
5. Never Point
Pointing with either one finger or two is considered rude. If you point at a person in India, you are signaling that they are your inferior. Instead, gesture with your whole hand, your chin, or a thumb. In the United States, it’s very common to point to things or people, so it may be difficult to break this habit. However, you should try and do  your best to avoid pointing while in India. To help, try not to point to things a few weeks before your trip.
6. Look For the Most Important Person in the Room
Businesses in India tend to be quite hierarchical. The person at the top will be the person who makes the decision, regardless of what their team members might think. Make sure you know who the decision maker is and direct your presentation to them when possible. This is one of the more important pieces of etiquette advice we can give you, so be sure to follow it while away on business.
7. Speak English
Most international business in India is done in English, so don’t worry about needing a translator, and bring business cards printed in English. This is best practice, which is why it’s very important that you speak in English as much as possible while traveling for business in India.
8. If You’re Offered Something to Eat or Drink, Take it
You always should accept food and drinks when they are offered to you. If you don’t feel comfortable trying a new dish, you can kindly decline. However, it’s important to note that in Indian culture, to decline would be considered rude. India has some incredibly tasty food and drinks, so you don’t want to pass up on the opportunity to try new things. You may even find that you end up trying one of your new favorite dishes!
9. Accept Every Invitation
If a business associate invites you out for drinks, to a party, or to their home for dinner, you should try to accept the invitation when possible. If you simply can’t go or don’t feel comfortable, politely decline, but know that they may consider this to be rude. Accepting invitations to events is the chance to go out and explore India with new people, and can help you form a closer connection to your new colleagues.
10. Be Punctual
Always plan ahead and make sure that you are on time to every business meeting. Failing to do so could be considered extremely rude. Even if the meeting doesn’t start exactly on time, be there early as a sign of respect. Take into account traffic delays as they could make you run late. If for some reason you do arrive at a meeting late, apologize immediately, and assure them that it won’t happen again.
If you need to get an India business visa for your upcoming trip, the Swift team is always here to help. You can begin the application on our website. The process is quick and easy to follow, and before you know it, you’ll have your India business visa. Along the way if you find that you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.
