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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
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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."
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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, don’t be surprised if the give
you a nickname!
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It will be an asset to have one side of your business card translated
into Thai.
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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.
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Be careful about how you frame your questions. Most Thai’s
avoid answering a direct question.
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Schedule your appointment at least a month or two in advance.
This shows your keenness in meeting the person.
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Be punctual. It reflects interest.
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Business hours in Thailand are from 8:30 to 5:00 pm, Monday through
Friday.
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Shopping places are open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 or 7:00 p.m.,
Monday through Saturday.
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Gifts are generally exchanged in the second meeting.
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If you are invited for a meal, take some fruits or cake. Carnations
and marigolds are associated with funerals. Avoid giving these
flowers.
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Remember that the gifts in Thailand are never opened in front
of the giver.
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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.
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Public display of affection between the opposite sex is not acceptable
in Thailand.
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Avoid touching anyone on the head. It reflects bad manners.
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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.
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Your hat and shoes must be removed before you enter a Buddhist
temple. It is a sign of respect.
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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.
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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
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Thai landmarks
• Restaurants
• Positive comments on the Thai
Royal family
• Politics
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