bilingual business | nov. 20, 2009

Working in a multi-cultural environment requires setting your colleagues and clients at ease in both environments. A wise initial step is to create a bilingual business card. Print English on one side and second language on the other side. Include phonetic pronunciation in a second language. Present card using two hands holding card away from you so text faces the reader in their preferred language. When recipient takes card, bow forward as a sign of respect. Also note, while taking notes on US-based card is considered helpful, it is disrespectful in the Japanese culture.