entire group to gather before making the presentation. When meeting with a group of Japanese colleagues,either present a group gift or a gift to each individual within the organization. It is considered extremely rude to present a gift to one individual in a group,without giving gifts to the rest of the ensemble.
In Islamic cultures,gifts should never be accepted or presented with the left hand. Be sure to avoid alcohol and leather products made of pigskin,which are offensive to Muslims. Also avoid giving gifts to the wife of an Arabian colleague (especially a Saudi),and never inquire about her. It can be taken as an offense. Artwork that consisted of sculptures,drawings
or
photos
showing
the
human
body,especially a nude or partially nude female body,is not acceptable as a gift. And although nicotine is discouraged,it’s frequently used in the Arabic and Middle Eastern countries.
Ideas of gifts to present to your colleagues in the Middle East
include
the
highest
quality
of
leather
(not
pigskin) ,silver,precious stones,cashmere,crystal or porcelain. Also , a good gift for a devout Muslim is a compass. Each day he must face Mecca for prayers. With a compass,no matter where in the world he happens to be,he can easily find the correct direction.
In Saudi Arabia,gifts should only be given to the most intimate of friends. For a Saudi to receive a present from a lesser acquaintance is so embarrassing as to be offensive.
Owing to the extremely personal nature of giving gifts,traditional perfume is usually the most appreciated. Just as in Europe a man displays his status by his tailoring ,so in Arabia he does so by his scent. Before giving any scent,use it first and consider giving it only to those who express admiration for your taste.
Compared to the Arabic cultures in the region,gifts in Israel are not as important. The attitude more resembles that found in North America:business is business ;gifts are for holidays like Hanukkah.
In most Asia/Pacific Rim countries,citizens are likely to downplay the importance of the gifts they give,and it is considered polite to show slight reluctance when accepting a gift. It is also impolite to open a gift in the presence of the giver. Gifts should be presented at the end of a visit.
When
choosing
wrapping
paper
in
Vietnam,red,purple,green and blue are fine. In Singapore red is most acceptable. Black is to be avoided in all Asian countries as it signifies death.
In Russia,DO take a gift that symbolizes the stature of your company and the importance of the impending business deal,preferably an item characteristic of your local area or one that displays the company logo. When invited to a Russian home, bring a gift of chocolate,good wine or other alcohol (try to select something other than vodka). If there are children in the family,it is thoughtful acknowledge them with a small gift,such as a toy or candy. It is also quite customary to bring along a bouquet of flowers for a wife,sister or mother. Pink ,cream-colored,orange,and blue flowers are rarely awarded any special meaning and,thus,are quite acceptable selections.
Gift giving in Latin America is not as ritualistic as in Asian and Middle Eastern countries;however,it plays an important part in the culture. You are not expected to present a gift at the first business meeting. When visiting a home for dinner,it is important to present the hostess with a small gift of flowers,chocolates or wine. Be careful of the type of flowers you present to the hostess. Some varieties are used for funerals only. Avoid leather gifts,since most of the world’s finest leathers come from South America.
In Mexico,giving gifts to business executives is not
required. Small items with a company logo (for an initial visit) are appreciated. Secretaries do appreciate gifts. If giving a valuable gift,such as perfume or a scarf,present it on a return visit. A man giving it to a female secretary should indicate the gift is from his wife. Gifts are not required for a dinner guest,but will be appreciated. Good choices are candy,flowers (sent ahead of time) ,or local crafts from home. Do not give made of silver,as it is associated with trinkets sold to tourists.
Not give gifts