In the Arab world, be careful about admiring your host’s watch, cuff links, or other possessions. An Arab businessman is often very magnanimous. He might give them to you on the spot and be offended if you refuse them.
Russians are renowned for their negotiating ability. They will stall for time if they do not think they can win. They are famous for unnerving negotiators by continuously delaying the proceedings and trying for a better deal.
A vital concept to understand in Korea is kibun, which means inner feelings. If one’s kibun is good, then one functions smoothly. If one’s kibun is bad, then one feels depressed or irritated. Keeping kibun in good order often takes precedence over other considerations. Damaging a person’s kibun may cut off the relationship and create an enemy.
To the Japanese there is almost no distinction between the business day and the business night. They consider it part of both their personal and professional lives to spend virtually every evening with business associates. “You get through to a man’s soul at night,” is a popular saying among Japanese businesspeople.
Make sure you get the date right when you book appointments internationally. If you ask for a meeting on 11/12, a European will note this as December 11 in his or her diary. An American will not it as November 12. If in doubt, spell it out!