Question

What are some cultural differences in gift-giving practices? What gifts are considered appropriate for a person from the United States to give to someone from another culture?

Answer 1

Another area of interest of cross-cultural understanding is the world's numerous gift labels. Knowing gift giving and the associated etiquette will help international business people develop stronger relationships with foreign colleagues, clients or consumers.

Gift-giving is uncommon in the business world in many countries such as North America or the UK. This can potentially bear negative connotations as gift-giving may be viewed as bribery. Nevertheless, gift giving and its protocol have a central role in the business activities of many other countries. Countries such as Malaysia and Paraguay, obsessed with corruption, are frowning at any gift that could be perceived as bribe. You wouldn't offer a gift in Malaysia unless you had formed a relationship with the person. Government workers in Singapore are not permitted to accept gifts, and the US is restricting the appropriate dollar value to $25.

In some countries such as Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines, however, gift exchanges are deeply rooted in tradition. The respectful style used to present and receive them is a part of tradition. Planning time is critical, and concentrating on the process. In Asia and the Middle East, it's very important to only use your right hand, or both, to give or accept a gift. Using both hands in Japan, and in Hong Kong. In Singapore a recipient can, before accepting your gift, "graciously refuse three times." But, in Chile, gifts are automatically accepted and opened. And in Indonesia, there are regular giving of small gifts.

Gifts are a symbolic way of expressing gratitude and continuing relationships, and are issued, but not as often, in European cultures. And there's no comprehensive protocol to deliver a gift except to avoid commonly used colors or flowers for funerals, or romance. The group covers Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe.

It is necessary to pay attention to any prohibitions on giving or receiving gifts on the part of corporations or governments. Government officials in the US, for example, also have clear limitations and constraints on when and what kinds of gifts they may accept.
Generally speaking, Americans don't bring presents to consumers when they meet for the first time, or as a thank you for doing business together. Nevertheless, during the holiday season (late December), Americans could be giving presents to friends, friends, and customers. During this time, it is normal for managers to give gifts to executive assistants and other subordinates.

If a individual from the U.S. is offered a gift, the giver may not receive one in exchange. Many Americans open the gift right in front of the giver so they can see what it is and express their gratitude for the item.