Global Business Greetings: How To Say “Hello” Around The World

Do you know how to say “hello” in Botswana? How do you greet someone in Iceland? You might be surprised how different global business greetings are. Learn how to say “hello” all over the world.

How to say hello around the world

There are many curious ways of saying “hello” around the world.

Of course, you are not expected to know every language in the world. It might be impossible.

But it is useful to know how to greet in the native language of your meeting partner. It shows respect and will be appreciated by your business partners from abroad.

Have you ever wondered how to greet someone in a meeting in Thailand?

International Master of Saying Hello“.The London Speaker Bureau created a great illustration to show you how to become an ““.

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So, the next time you meet people from a different country and culture, try saying “hello” in their language.

Starting a meeting off with a nice and proper greeting is important for the success of your business meeting or business trip.

Body Language in Global Business Greetings

Greetings are not only the words you say. Gestures are an essential part of greeting someone.

For instance, should you give a handshake in Japan?

In Gabon, people show respect by shaking hands with both hands.

Formal and Informal Greetings

Note that there are also differences between informal and formal greetings. When you meet someone from Bhutan you greet them in a formal way by bowing with your arms outstretched.

How do you greet people in your country?

As always, I would like to hear from you: How do you greet people in a business context in your country? Share your answers in the comments below!

Take a look at the infographic for more greetings in 54 countries around the world:

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