Do’s and Don’ts Assignment Develop a list of Do's and Don'ts in your country. When developing this list, think what advice you would give to a person new to this country: what are the major rules of etiquette, what behaviors to avoid, and what would be the right things to do? Create two separate lists: – for work behavior and – for day-to-day interactions © Alexandre Ardichvili

Do's and Don'ts in Russia" (shared by a visiting professor (female) from Russia) Do not expect “thank you” notes Don’t be shocked when strangers make comments on your appearance and behavior Do not be surprised by a late night call from a Russian friend Do not try to keep up with Russians when drinking Do not walk on grass; do not put your feet on the table Don’t expect to do much business over the phone © Alexandre Ardichvili

Don’ts in Russia, cont. – Don’t debate politics – Don’t discuss Communism or “how bad the Soviet Union was” – Don’t talk about “bringing religion to Russia” – Don’t make jokes about Mafia – you might be talking with them at the time – Don’t sign anything if you’ve been drinking – Do not assume that everybody speaking Russian is Russian © Alexandre Ardichvili

Dos in Russia Remember that “no” does not always mean “no” and “yes” does not always mean “yes.” “Dress for success.” Appearance counts. Do not expect to conduct business in jeans. Be patient. Do not expect to get down to business right away. Remember: courteous behavior towards women is a norm. Do bring flowers (odd number) © Alexandre Ardichvili

Dos and Don’ts in Thailand (from Yee & Gordon, 1995) Do not lose your temper (Never) Do not expect your verbal instructions to be remembered Do not expect any sense of punctuality or urgency (remember “mai pen rai” – “it’s OK”; “never mind”) Do treat all materials bearing any portrait of members of the Royal family with high respect Do not joke about the Royal family Do rise at royal anthem in cinema and other public places Do not step over any part of another person © Alexandre Ardichvili

Dos and Don’ts in the US (developed by students at the U of MN) Do write thank you notes Do offer to split the check at the restaurant Do ask the host/hostess what to bring to a party Don’t expect a specific answer to your “How are you?” question Don’t complain about problems you are having; Do project positive image at all times Do not hesitate to get down to business during the first meeting with a client © Alexandre Ardichvili