Public Speaking Tips: International Speaking

To a Russian, joviality and cheerfulness may be interpreted as light-mindedness and might even be seen as impolite. After a meeting, however, joviality and relaxed interaction go a long way toward developing trust.

Never refer to a Russian as "Comrade."

Do not call Mexicans by their first name until invited to do so.

Mexicans hold a handshake, squeeze of the arm, or a hug longer than people from the United States and Canada do.

Do not give a knife or a letter opener as a gift. This symbolizes the severing of friendship.

In Canada, do not take sides in debates about contentious national issues such as the place of English and French languages in Canadian society.

If going to Quebec, have business cards printed on one side in English and the other side in French.

Realize that Canadians get down to business quickly. Meetings are well organized and extraneous discussion is kept to a minimum.