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Say you were going to a business meeting. How would you be expected to greet people? The body language
of a greeting can vary from culture to culture. It may be a firm handshake or a nod. In some cultures, it's proper
to greet others with a bow, or a bow and a handshake. In some cultures, a kiss on both cheeks is normal.

How Close Should You Stand to Another Person?

In some cultures, people are expected to keep a certain distance from one another. Standing too close is
considered an invasion of personal space. In other cultures, people stand quite close to one another. Taking a
step back during the conversation to establish more space may be considered rude.
Should You Maintain Eye Contact?

In some cultures, eye contact is important. It shows that you are confident, respectful, and that you're paying
attention. Still, regular blinking is necessary. Not blinking at all may be considered threatening. In some cultures,
eye contact is considered disrespectful. In others, any eye contact is threatening. People may make eye contact
but are then expected to look away.

Should You Smile?

Smiling to establish a good relationship is considered important in some countries, such as Colombia and the
U.S. In some other countries, it's not as important. In these cultures, not smiling is OK. You're not seen as being
distant.
How Should You Sit?

Good posture is usually appreciated, regardless of culture. Don't put your feet on a chair or a table; doing this
is considered rude. In some cultures, crossing legs or ankles is rude. If you're not sure whether this is true where
you are, sit with your ankles together (not crossed) and your feet facing forward.

Should You Touch Other People?
Touching is more acceptable in some cultures than in others. Many cultures do not allow touching in the
workplace. This may be particularly true between men and women. In some countries, coworkers may hug or
slap one another on the back to show friendliness. Still, some people are not comfortable with this behavior. Do
you tend to touch people to show friendliness? Hold back. Observe others to find out whether they are OK with
it. If you are still unsure, play it safe. Do not touch others at work.

Never assume that someone shares your cultural rules. Many online resources contain information about the
cultural rules in various countries. Check them out. This way, you can be sure to show respect for others in the
workplace.

Dictionary

attitude (noun) the way a person thinks or feels about someone or something

contradict (verb) to be in conflict with

invasion (noun) disturbance or unwelcome presence
positive (adjective) happy or upbeat

posture (noun) the way that you hold your body when you stand or sit

vary (verb) to change