Indonesian Business Ettiquette

Here are some general do's and don'ts for business in Indonesia:

- Be on time for any meetings. The meetings traditionally start late, and your Indonesian business associates will probably arrive late. However, you are expected on time, and should never make any comment about the meeting starting late or any person arriving late.

- Do not give gifts or pictures that show dogs. They are considered unclean.

- Leaving food on your plate signifies you are impolite, so eat all the food you are served

- Never stand with your back to an elderly person or a high ranking official. As you enter a room be aware of the people who will be in that room with you.

- Present a business card to each person you are meeting. Offer your card with the printing positioned so the recipient can read it. Your right hand holds the card, with your left hand supporting your right wrist. Your card will be received with both hands.

- Never carry your business cards, or place another person's business card in a back pocket.

- Mr., Madam, Mrs. or Miss is used if a person does not have a title. A man is addressed as Pak (Mr.) or Bapak(Sir) . A lady is addressed as Ibu.

- People are normally called by their first name, as in Mr. Robert or Miss Susan, rather than using their last name.

- Selamat means peace and is a traditional greeting.

http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/indonesia.htm accessed on July 18th at 1:40pm