Interesting Cross-Cutural Gift Giving Etiquettes

Did you know that there's many nuances when it comes to gift giving? This is especially so in the business settings whereby gift giving in some cultures may be seen as a form of bribery.

Just a few to share here:

Japan

. Gift-giving is a central part of Japanese business etiquette and is deeply ingrained into Japanese business culture.

. The emphasis in Japanese business culture is on the act of gift-giving not the gift itself.

. Bring a range of gifts for your trip so if you are presented with a gift you will be able to reciprocate.
. A gift for an individual should be given in private.

. Expensive gifts are common.

. The best time to present a gift is at the end of your visit.
. If you are presenting a gift to a group of people have them all present.
. The correct etiquette is to present/receive gifts with both hands.. Before accepting a gift it is polite to refuse at least once or twice before accepting.

. Giving four or nine of anything is considered unlucky. Give in pairs if possible.

France

. Gift giving are expected at social event and as a form of saying "thank you".

. Gift giving is left to the foreigner's discretion.

. Good gifts to present include books or music as they demonstrate intellectual pursuits but do ensure you are reasonably acquainted with the recipient's taste before giving these kind of gifts.

.French business etiquette dictates that you don't include your business card with a gift.

. If you're invited to a French home, consider it a rare honor and bring flowers, quality chocolate or liquors to the host. Present your gift before the entertaining proceeds.

.Don't bring the gift of wine unless it's a special French dessert wine or a high quality liquor as the host usually prefers to make the evening's selection.

China

. It is the proper etiquette for gifts to be exchanged as a way of giving thanks and even as a sweetener for future favours.

. Business gifts are always reciprocated. Not to do so is bad etiquette.

. It is however important not to give gifts in the absence of a good reason or a witness.

. When the Chinese want to buy gifts it is not uncommon for them to ask what you would like.
. It would be wise to demonstrate an appreciation of Chinese culture by asking for items such as ink paintings or tea.
. Do not give cash as gifts and do not be too frugal with your choice of gift
. Depending on the item, try to give the gift in pairs. Chinese stresses harmony and balance (think Ying & yang) so giving gifts in pairs are thought to be more auspicious.

And in general:

• Sharp Objects

In many cultures, items with a sharp edge symbolize the severing of a friendship or relationship. In these cases, you wouldn’t select a knife,pair of scissors, or a letter opener for a gift. Because of this common symbolism, it’s better to select a gift from another category, rather than risk making a bad choice.

• Locally Produced Product

If you’re doingbusiness in a country known for producing a particular product, local pride and quality dictate that you wouldn't offer that item as a gift, especially if it were manufactured elsewhere.

• Electronic Gadgets and Office Accessories

Business gifts that are useful for a businessperson, whether an executive or a staff member, are electronic items such as laser pointers, PDAs, calculators, and address books.

• Desk & Office Accessories

Good gifts include fine quality pens, or pen and pencil sets, business card holders, good leather briefcases or leather organizers for use in the

office or in a briefcase.

• Liquor

A quality bottle of liquor or wine always makes a good gift for someone who drinks alcohol, unless the person lives in a region noted for producing the product.

• Chocolate

Universally, this is a good choice. There are many fine quality chocolates that make exquisite gifts for a business meeting, for taking with you to someone’s home as a hostess gift, or for a thank you to a staff person who’s helped you on a project. Because it can be boxed in various sizes, it also works if you need a gift for a large group.

There’s even kosher chocolate for you to give to your Jewish business associates and clients.

• Flowers

Flowers can be frequently used as a gift, especially if you’ve been invited to someone’s home. You may want to bring flowers with you to the house, send them prior to the dinner party, or have them sent the following day as a ‘thank you’. It’s best to advise the florist that the bouquet is to be a gift, and the reason for the occasion, so an appropriate selection can be made.

In Europe, the old European tradition of always giving an odd number of flowers is still followed today (all except 13 which is considered unlucky).

In some cultures a particular color or type of flower is associated with romance or funerals, and would not be chosen to give a hostess. Red roses are frequently considered romantic. Funeral associations frequently occur with lilies or calla lilies, chrysanthemums, Frangipani, white roses, marigolds, carnations, heather, and white or purple flowers. In some Latin countries, yellow flowers symbolize contempt.

Now that you know these "rules", you may want to take note of the art of giving before your purchase something for your business associates.

And for your friends and others, you may want to consider some of ICING gifts. ;)