May 23 - It bodes well for those planning to do business in Vietnam to take the time to know how local culture conducts business deals to avoid any miscommunication.

As with most people in the world, the Vietnamese tend to be flattered when a foreigner makes the effort to learn even a simple phrase in their language. So take note to remember -xin chao (pronounced as seen chow)- meaning hello in Vietnamese.

While you may be forgiven for not knowing better in some cases, it’s always in your best interest to avoid offending the locals. Generally, Vietnam is influenced by Confucianism and shares more common business practices with China, Japan and Korea compared to its Southeast Asian neighbors.

Meet and greet
Vietnam is a tropical country so smart lightweight casuals are acceptable. Dress conservatively. Western-style suits are reserved only for special occasions.

A handshake and a slight bow of the head is the general custom for saying hello and goodbye.

When giving your calling card always do so with both hands, the same goes for receiving cards. You must take the time to read the name on the card; hastily stuffing it in you pocket or barely giving it a glance is deemed offensive. Make sure your card has both English and Vietnamese translations.

Vietnamese names are usually written and introduced in the order of last name, middle name, and first name.

Getting down to business
For the Vietnamese, there is no such thing as a win-win situation. For them there is only a winner and a loser. So do not be surprised if a business contact will continue to take the time to improve their terms even everything has been agreed upon. Make allowances for that contingency.

Business meetings are should be made in the presence of a local translator. Cold calling is a no-no as strangers are seen with distrust so ask to be introduced to a potential business contact by a common acquaintance. Make the effort to meet new contacts in person as it the preferred method over talking on the phone or corresponding via emails. During the meeting, it will the guest’s responsibility to signal the end of the meeting.

Remember the concept of “face” and tread with care. Do not to publicly embarrass, correct or scold a Vietnamese contact. The Vietnamese may be self-deprecating but culture revolves heavily around this concept of avoiding offense and sometimes you may find a local dodging a question or talking around a concept before getting to the point. Vietnamese can sometimes be reluctant to voice opinion or give a negative answer. Being straightforward will not win you friends in this part of the world. It is more important to keep the appearance of being pleasant even when speaking about serious matters.

Eating and drinking
When invited as a guest in a Vietnamese home, remember to bring fruit, sweets, flowers, or incense. Avoid giving handkerchiefs, anything black, yellow flowers or chrysanthemums. Since you are the guest of honor, the best dishes will be offered to you, be sure to taste it and share.

Wait for the host to give the signal to start the meal before sampling any of the food. It is considered good manners to finish all the food in your plate.

At a restaurant, wait to be seated. In most cases, the oldest in the group will be seated first. Use both hands to pass items and never anything over someone’s head. When motioning for a person to come over, do not use your finger, and use your hand to beckon instead.

Remember that spoons should be held with the left hand when soup is served.