The document introduces a game called KBOSH that aims to enhance cultural awareness of global business norms and customs. KBOSH stands for Kiss, Bow Or Shake Hands, which is inspired by the book of the same name. The game involves forming teams to answer multiple choice questions about greeting customs and business norms in different countries. Countries covered include Brazil, China, France, India, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Russia and the United States. The game aims to educate participants about diversity in a fun, collaborative way.
1. Inspired by the book K iss, B ow O r S hake H ands Created by Judy Isaman—All Rights Reserved It’s Time to Play KBOSH
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12. Please stow your tray table, return your seats to an upright position, and fasten your seat belts as our worldwide tour comes to a close. Created by Judy Isaman—All Rights Reserved Please provide any input to the content owner – jgisaman@aol.com
13.
14.
15.
Editor's Notes
It is undeniable that garments form a large part of people's first impressions. In much of the world, a person dressed inappropriately will not be taken seriously, especially in a business situation. Argentina: very formal. The Argentines have adopted British traditions towards clothing, usually wearing formal, conservative outfits, even in many social situations. Foreign business executives visiting Argentina should do likewise. Businesswomen in Argentina should be sure to wear stylish shoes. Brazil: casual but stylish. By contrast with Argentina, style is the most important factor in Brazilian dress. Well-cut, fashionable clothing is expected of Brazilian executives. Many male executives manage to do without ties. But remember that Brazil is very large, and the degree of casualness varies. Rio de Janeiro is more casual than São Paulo, which itself is more casual than Brasília. Brazilian women consider carefully manicured nails to be very important. Women who wear open-toed shoes should have a pedicure as well. Women should make sure that their nails are well manicured. Only young people wear jeans. Men should war slacks and long sleeved shirts for casual attire. The colors of the Brazilian flag are green and yellow so avoid wearing this combination in any fashion.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Agency has strict laws against bribery. Avoid giving gifts that could be interpreted as bribes. Gifts are given between friends. Do not give a gift to anyone before your have established a personal relationship with them. Otherwise the gift may have the appearance of a bribe. The Chinese traditionally decline a gift 3 times before accepting, this prevents them from appearing greedy. Continue to insist and once they have accepted the gift say that your pleased that they have done so. It is not the custom to unwrap a gift in the presence of the giver. To do so would suggest that the recipient is greedy and impatient. Except the recipient to thank you briefly, then put the still-wrapped gift aside until you have left. Muslim Malays consider dogs unclean. Do not give toy dogs or gifts with pictures of dogs. The Chinese associate all of the following with funerals—do not give them as gifts: straw sandals, clocks, a stork or crane, handkerchiefs, gifts or wrapping paper with the predominant color is white, black, or blue.
The standard U.S. conversation starter is “What do you do?” Meaning, “what kind of work do you do, and for whom?” This is not considered rude or boring. Whether a colleague is a man or a woman should be ignored, except when it comes to personal questions. People should not be asked if they are married, unless they mention it. If they do, then you should simply ask a few polite questions about their spouse and/or children. U.S. executives begin talking about business after a very brief exchange of small talk, whether in the office, at a restaurant, or even at home. Some common topics of conversation are a person’s job, travel, foods (and dieting), exercise, sports, music, movies, and books. Until you know a person well, avoid discussing religion, money, politics, or other controversial subjects. Compliments are exchanged often. If you wish to chat with someone you can compliment something that person has (e.g. clothing or car) or done (work or sports related).
![[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],Created by Judy Isaman—All Rights Reserved](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)