Gift Giving Etiquette

When doing business in different countries and cultures it can be difficult to know what to give as a gift. Gift giving has in fact grown in importance due to the increase in international trade and has become an extension of the business relationship. Both sides now see gist giving as both a way of firming up a relationship as well as representing their culture in the best light.

Gift giving can be a minefield if thought about too much. In principle there are a few simple guidelines people should stick to when giving gifts and the rest is up to common sense. The following tips will help chose the gift that will be appropriate, appreciated, and remembered.

· Be Culturally Aware

When giving a gift in a foreign country, do your homework to find out if there are any dos and don'ts when it comes to exchanging gifts. Ten minutes research can save a lot of embarrassment. Pay attention to areas such as what gifts are culturally inappropriate, what to wrap them in and how to give/accept them.

· Use Personal Interests

Do some digging on your client/customer and try to find gifts that fit with their interests. Do they support a certain sports teams or like a specific game? Do they have a favourite band or like a certain food? Picking up on their interests will show your attention to detail and result in a better relationship.

· Obey Company Rules

Always find out if there are any formal rules with regards to gift giving in a company. Some have strict policies on what can or cannot be accepted. For example, many companies now place restrictions on the value of a gift that can be accepted. If you don't like the idea of asking your client, then ask their PA or receptionist instead.

· Using the logo

Whether or not to use the logo is a difficult question. Some people may find it a bit of marketing ploy and not take kindly to it. Others may see it as a nice touch. The best advice is that if you must give a gift with your logo on it, keep it small and subtle.

When it comes to gift giving etiquette the best advice is to use your common sense and seek out the experiences of others. Gifts vary in importance from culture to culture so make sure that the gift you give is deemed proper for that particular country, person or company.

Cross cultural gift giving etiquette involves considering the following points:

– Who is receiving the gift? Is it a person or a group? What is the status of the receiver(s)?

– What types of gifts are acceptable or unacceptable?

– What is the protocol associated with gift giving and receiving?

– Should gifts be reciprocated?

In many countries such as in North America or the UK, gift giving is rare in the business world. In fact, it may carry negative connotations as gift giving could be construed as bribery. However, in many other countries, gift giving and its etiquette have a central place in business practices.

In order to highlight some of the different aspects of cross cultural gift giving etiquette a few examples shall be presented.

ü Gift Giving Etiquette in China

· It is the proper etiquette for gifts to be exchanged for celebrations, as thanks for assistance and even as a sweetener for future favours.

· It is however important not to give gifts in the absence of a good reason or a witness.

· When the Chinese want to buy gifts it is not uncommon for them to ask what you would like.

· It would be wise to demonstrate an appreciation of Chinese culture by asking for items such as ink paintings or tea.

· Business gifts are always reciprocated. Not to do so is bad etiquette.

· When giving gifts do not give cash.

· Do not be too frugal with your choice of gift otherwise you will be seen as an 'iron rooster', i.e. getting a good gift out of you is like getting a feather out of an iron rooster.

· Depending on the item, avoid giving one of something. Chinese philosophy stresses harmony and balance, so give in pairs.

ü Gift Giving Etiquette in Japan

· Gift-giving is a central part of Japanese business etiquette.

· Bring a range of gifts for your trip so if you are presented with a gift you will be able to reciprocate.

· The emphasis in Japanese business culture is on the act of gift-giving not the gift itself.

· Expensive gifts are common.

· The best time to present a gift is at the end of your visit.

· A gift for an individual should be given in private.

· If you are presenting a gift to a group of people have them all present.

· The correct etiquette is to present/receive gifts with both hands.

· Before accepting a gift it is polite to refuse at least once or twice before accepting.

· Giving four or nine of anything is considered unlucky. Give in pairs if possible.

ü Gift Giving Etiquette in Saudi Arabia

· Gifts should only be given to the most intimate of friends.

· Gifts should be of the highest quality.

· Never buy gold or silk as a present for men.

· Silver is acceptable.

· Always give/receive gifts with the right hand.

· Saudis enjoy wearing scent - itr. The most popular is oud which can cost as much as £1000 an ounce.

· It is not bad etiquette to open gifts when received.

The above are a few of many examples of cross cultural differences in gift giving etiquette. It is advisable to try and ascertain some facts about the gift giving etiquette of any country you plan to visit on business. By doing so, you maximize the potential of your cross cultural encounter.

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