Etiquette classes for Britons heading to India

Etiquette classes for Britons heading to India

London: British business executives can now undergo Indian etiquette lessons before flying out to India — thanks to the United Kingdom-India Business Council(UKIBC) which is launching a series of ‘culture courses’.
   With a growing trend of British companies seeking to establish a presence in India, the courses will offer valuable tips on how to bow graciously, smile politely and refrain from kissing women, The Guardian reported
   In fact, the lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips and calling Indian managers by their first names.
   “The US and Japan are already well established in India but there’s a feeling that if Britain does not get properly involved soon they will be missing the boat. Business in India is all about trust.
   “If you make a wrong move culturally you can throw away your chances,” UKIBC’s chief executive Sharon Bamford was quoted as saying.
   The organisation advises against shaking hands with women unless offered, and they should never be kissed in greeting or goodbye. AGENCIES