Do's
and Dont's
Career
Abroad is the ideal guide to facts on work culture abroad. Do's
and don'ts on etiquette, work ethics and conversational pleasantries,
find them all here.
Thailand
Greetings
Thai business professionals give a lot of importance to the business
titles. Ensure that you address them appropriately. Address them
with a courtesy title such as Mr, Mrs
or Ms followed by theor first name. The short Thai
term of "Mr.", "Mrs.", or "Miss"
is "Khun."
Most of the businesspeople are Chinese. Their names generally
consist of their family name, followed by their personal name.
Nicknames are popular in Thailand. In case they have a difficulty
in pronouncing your name, dont be surprised if the give
you a nickname!
It will be an asset to have one side of your business card translated
into Thai.
Thais are very particular about the people they want to start
a business with. They will closely monitor the way you interact
in business and social settings.
You may be invited for a formal lunch or dinner initially. Ensure
that you do not discuss work at this time.
The Thai society is deeply
hierarchical. They are open to new ideas and concepts.
Smiling or laughing is not a sign of amusement! It could also
be because your Thai counterpart is nervous or embarrassed about
something. The best thing that you could do is change the topic
of conversation.
Be careful about how you frame your questions. Most Thais
avoid answering a direct question.
Schedule your appointment at least a month or two in advance.
This shows your keenness in meeting the person.
Be punctual. It reflects interest.
Business hours in Thailand are from 8:30 to 5:00 pm, Monday through
Friday.
Shopping places are open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.,
Monday through Saturday.
Gifts are generally exchanged in the second meeting.
If you are invited for a meal, take some fruits or cake. Carnations
and marigolds are associated with funerals. Avoid giving these
flowers.
Remember that the gifts in Thailand are never opened in front
of the giver.
A handshake is an appropriate greeting for a man. Avoid shaking
hands with a lady if you are meeting her for the first time, unless
she initiates it.
Public display of affection between the opposite sex is not acceptable
in Thailand.
Avoid touching anyone on the head. It reflects bad manners.
Whether you are in a bus or in a train, if you a see a monk standing,
offer him your seat. It reflects good manners.
Your hat and shoes must be removed before you enter a Buddhist
temple. It is a sign of respect.
The climate in Thailand is very hot and humid. Wear lightweight
clothing. Since most offices and public places are heavily air
conditioned, you can take a blazer, sweater and suit jackets.
On formal occasions, men should
wear traditional summer formal attire, which consists of a white
jacket, black pants, and black tie; long dresses are recommended
for women.
When you initiate a conversation, there are a few topics that
you may need to avoid. Here is a list of topics on which you can
start a conversation
Thai landmarks
Restaurants
Positive comments on the Thai
Royal family
Politics
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