Global Business Culture – India

What does head shaking mean in India?

A supervisor of a global sales department took a business trip to India for a meeting with his local client. He thought that his presentation went smoothly but was shocked to see his Indian client bobbing his head left to right. The supervisor immediately assumed that this gesture was a negative response.

Gestures imply many things according to each country, and most people believe that shaking one’s head from left to right has a negative connotation. But in India, one can often see people bobbing their heads from side to side or even rapidly tracing the number 8 with their heads. Many foreigners often take this gesture negatively, but in India shaking one’s head is actually used to communicate understanding.

Business in India DOs & DON’Ts

DOs

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  Personal questions in India are considered a way to show friendliness. Indians may ask questions about your family, marital status, political disposition, and salary as a way to break the ice.

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  If your counterpart is older or has a higher rank, it is recommended to address them as Sir or Madam. When addressing high-ranking government officials, make sure to put ‘Shri’ in front of the name and ‘Ji’ after the name.

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  Popular subjects in India are politics, cricket, and movies (Bollywood). Studying these elements prior to seeing Indian business partners is a plus in building a relationship with them.

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  Wash your hands before having a meal. In India, people eat with their right hands and cleaning yourself is seen as a considerate gesture towards others.

DON’Ts

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  Do not mention Mahatma Gandhi negatively. He is considered to be the ‘Father of the nation’ in India and Indians are proud of their rich cultural heritage.

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  Do not show your palm to anyone else when pointing at someone. Indians take this as an insulting gesture.

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  Do not give any products made out of cow as Hindus believe these animals are sacred.

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  Rejecting food or beverages in India is perceived as rude since they see food as a gift from the gods.

Hanwha Affiliates in India

Hanwha Group companies in India include Hanwha Corporation, Hanwha Q CELLS, and Hanwha Chemical. These companies operate a total of 3 offices across the country located in the cities of Mumbai and New Delhi.