Thailand is home to many growing economic markets. The nation provides convenient trade with India, China, and ASEAN countries. In recent years, an increasing number of international companies and independent foreign investors consider setting up a new business or opening a branch in Thailand.
Foreigners planning to come to the country to start a business and build a network should learn and practice the business etiquette in Thailand to make it easier for them to look for and impress local business partners, create strong relationships, and obtain the goals they have set for themselves and their business. Here are seven vital business etiquette in Thailand foreigners need to know.
Greetings
People in the country greet each other with the traditional wai greeting. To perform this greeting, one has to raise his or her hands in a prayer position and slightly bow his or her head. The level of respect one gives depends on how high the hands are lifted and how far the head is dropped.
The general rule foreigners should remember is that a much younger person will offer the wai while a much older person will respond. As a foreigner, it is best not to initiate the wai first. Instead, wait to see which greeting is given and respond to it.
Business cards
Business cards are usually treated casually in many western nations. However, this is not the case in Thailand, as well as many other countries in Asia. In Thailand, business cards are treated as an extension of the people offering them. Hence, people receiving the cards should show respect.
A person should always hand out a business card with both hands. People with bilingual cards should hold the Thai side facing up with the characters facing the receiver while presenting it. The business card receiver should also take the card with both hands and spend some time looking at it. Making a positive comment about the card, such as its nice design, is considered polite.
Communication and courtesy
Politeness and courtesy are the Thai culture’s cornerstone. Foreign entrepreneurs should be friendly and courteous all the time and avoid being inconsiderate and rude. Do not show anger or criticize other people publicly, as these actions will leave a bad impression.
Moreover, being respectful, modest, and self-effacing is a vital part of good behaviour in Thailand. People experiencing awkwardness or embarrassment usually smile or laugh to lessen the feeling.
Value of hierarchy
In Thailand, hierarchy is essential in both family and professional settings. Demonstrating the proper respect for a person and their status is a major aspect of forging successful and strong relationships. Thai people will usually ask several questions when they meet someone for the first time to know where their place is in the hierarchy. Therefore, foreigners should prepare themselves and not panic when bombarded with a series of questions by the locals.
Significance of relationships
Relationships are essential when doing business in the country. Foreign entrepreneurs who wish to build a network and get strong partnerships should invest their time in building personal connections and relationships. The main way to build these relationships is to bring the other person out for a meal or drinks and get to know them while having a good time together.
Meetings decorum
When dealing with local business partners, foreign entrepreneurs should confirm the meeting one day before showing up punctually. Honouring an engagement is a sign of courtesy and respect; failing to do so will leave a bad impression.
Business dress code
Appearance is essential in the country. The locals dress classy and fashionably, so foreigners should do the same. Nonetheless, they should also be somewhat conservative. For the men, a dark suit with a white, long-sleeve dress shirt and tie is fine. While the ladies have slightly more flexibility with colours, they should avoid bright red outfits. Generally, the ladies should stick with white or dark-coloured dresses, knee-length skirts, formal blouses covering the neckline and shoulders, or business suits with dress pants.
Choosing the right business services provider in Thailand
Foreigners intending to establish a business in Thailand should engage with professional Business Services providers, such as Reliance Consulting, to streamline the company registration process and ensure they stay compliant with the country’s current regulations.