Cultural Research Report on Vietnam

Prepared for Katie Robberson
Management 330 Professor

Prepared by
Natoddsha Downey
SIUE Business Student

December 3, 2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY……………………………………………………………………….3

INTRODUCTION: BUSINESS AND SOCIAL ASPECTS OF
VIETNAMESE CUTURE………………………………………………………………...………4

BACKGROUND: BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT VIETNAM………………………………4

TOPICS:

Business Culture…………………………………………………………………………..5 Meetings……………………………………………………………………...….5 Dress…………………………………………………………………………...….5 Communication…………………………………………………..………………..5 Negotiating…………………………………………………………………………. 6 Currency………………………………………………………………………….6

Social
Colors such as grey, black, white, or black are all safe colors. Steer clear of bright colors or anything that draws a lot of attention. Women should not wear anything that is short, tight, or revealing. Anything flashy or expensive is frowned upon in Vietnam. For example, Christian Louboutin heels, Gucci belts, and expensive jewelry should be left at home. More casual business attire is acceptable later on down the line once a better business relationship has been established.

COMMUNICATING:

When communicating in a Vietnamese business setting it is always good to remain calm. It is very important to greet in order of seniority. In Vietnam, posture and maintaining a substantial amount of personal space is important, as it is in America. In America it is impressive to have a firm handshake. In Vietnam it is the opposite. A more modest handshake is better. Sometimes in more formal settings the Vietnamese use two hands. If one shakes your hand and bows be sure to follow suit.

Always smile, even when you are uncomfortable. It’s somewhat serves the same purpose that a “poker face” would. If eye contact is avoided, it means that the individual does not agree with what the other is saying. It is important to limit contact with the opposite sex physically. Pointing and hand gestures are frowned upon. Instead of pointing open the palm of your hand to direct attention towards