Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands: The Bestselling Guide to Doing Business in More Than 60 Countries

At first glance, you might think that a book that offers advice on business protocol in 60 countries would be superficial in its advice on each one. But this is a great "read" and browsing from country to country can emphasize the key cultural differences when you are visiting just one country. There's even a section on the US, and it's good to learn that we are almost the only country in the world where strangers get straight down to business (Ever asked a visitor:"How was your flight?" then realized you didn't even listen to the answer before launching into business.)This book contains both the important practical matters (bring a gift, wrap it in certain colors, don't expect it to be opened in front of you) and also some interesting academic issues: "Locus of control" and "sources of anxiety reduction." You'll be pleased to know that Americans don't worry about anxiety much--except about deadlines at work.

This is an essential in both the briefcase of the international business traveller and the suitcase of the more casual tourist. Failure to observe local custom could, at best, render you a laughing stock, and at worse cause serious offence; remember - cultural sensitivity is both common courtesy and sound business sense. The information contained in the book is spot on, at least for the places I have first hand experience of. Don't even think about nailing the deal in Finland unless you first spend 9 hours in a melancholic, sullen and punishing drinking binge with your host; the book even gives you the translation of "You're here to drink, not to enjoy yourself" in the unlikely event that your host attempts some banter. Tourists to England would also be well advised to bear in mind that over one in five of the men you will meet will be either repressed butlers or caddish rascals with an eye to world domination, and when in France, dress for business success: most anything is acceptable as long as it says about you "well-groomed lothario".

I have had several occasions to use this book includeing trips to Asia. This book is uncanny in its accuracy.

Iam not a international Business. Iam am Indian and citizen of India. Out of curiosity I read this book, and I can tell you that the facts mentioned in this book are 101% correct, regarding India. If facts about India is covered, with such fine and accurate details, Iam sure authors must have done a fine job with other countries too.

I searched for a book like this for several years after becoming an international sales manager, and had almost decided to write a similar text when I happened across Kiss, Bow or Shake Hands. It's now a reference guide for everyone in our office who travels to, purchases from or sells to international vendors or customers. Great information in an easily understood format. Some statements are by necessity generalizations, but if you follow the guidelines in the book, you'll never offend a potential international business partner. I've given K,B or SH to several business associates - but never to competitors.