Business Etiquette in India: An Introduction

Understanding business etiquette in India is critical if you want to create successful business relationships in this powerhouse of global business.

By EOR Editor

When most people think of India, the first thing that comes to mind is its immense culture and history. However, what many people don’t know is that India is also home to a booming business industry. Indeed, India is now the world’s fastest-growing major economy. With this growth comes new opportunities in the business world, as well as new challenges. If you’re looking to do business in India, it’s important to be aware of the country’s unique business etiquette. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the key aspects of Indian business etiquette so that you can make a good impression and conduct successful transactions with Indian businesses.

What is the Business Etiquette in India?

Business etiquette in India can vary depending on the industry, company culture, and region, but there are some general guidelines to follow when conducting business in India:

Greetings: It is common to greet someone with a Namaste in India, which is a gesture of respect and involves pressing the palms together and bowing the head slightly. It is also common to exchange business cards and to present and receive them with the right hand.
Communication: In India, communication is often indirect, and it is common to use subtle cues and hints rather than making direct requests. It is also important to be respectful and deferential when communicating with superiors or elders.
Dress code: Business attire in India is generally formal, with suits or saris being the norm. It is important to dress modestly and to cover your shoulders and knees.
Business meetings: Punctuality is important to Indians, but it is also common for meetings to start later than planned. This is because business meetings often involve a lot of small talk and socializing before getting down to business.
Gift-giving: In India, it is customary to bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home or office. Gifts are typically exchanged during festivals or on special occasions. It is important to avoid giving gifts that are too expensive or lavish, as this can be seen as inappropriate or even offensive.
Negotiations: Negotiations are often a long and drawn-out process in India, and it is important to be patient and to build relationships before trying to close a deal. It is also important to be flexible and to be willing to make compromises.

As with any country, it is important to be respectful and to show sensitivity to cultural differences when conducting business in India.

What Are the Dos and Don'ts of Business in India?

Here are some dos and don’ts of business in India:

Dos:

Greet people with a ‘Namaste’ and exchange business cards with your right hand.
Dress formally and modestly, covering your shoulders and knees.
Be punctual, but understand that meetings may start late.
Engage in small talk and socializing before getting down to business.
Bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home or office.
Be patient and build relationships before trying to close a deal.
Be flexible and willing to make compromises during negotiations.

Don’ts:

Don’t be too direct or assertive in communication.
Don’t give gifts that are too expensive or lavish.
Don’t be impatient or pushy during negotiations.
Don’t be disrespectful or show a lack of sensitivity to cultural differences.

What is the Business Culture like in India?

The business culture in India is shaped by many factors, including the country’s history, diversity, and cultural values. Here are some key aspects of the business culture in India:

Hierarchy: Indian businesses often have a hierarchical structure, with clear lines of authority and decision-making. Respect for authority and hierarchy is important, and it is common for decisions to be made by higher-ups rather than by lower-level employees.
Communication: In India, communication is often indirect and can involve subtle cues and hints rather than direct requests. It is also common to engage in small talk and socializing before getting down to business.
Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is an important part of doing business in India. It is important to show respect and build trust with business partners and colleagues.
Negotiations: Negotiations in India can be a long and drawn-out process, and it is important to be patient and to build relationships before trying to close a deal. It is also common to make compromises and to find a middle ground in negotiations.
Gender roles: In India, traditional gender roles can still influence the business culture. For example, it is more common for men to hold leadership positions, and women may face more challenges in the workplace.
Respect for elders: In India, it is important to show respect for elders and to adhere to traditional cultural norms. This can include greeting elders with a Namaste and using titles such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” when addressing them.

Overall, the business culture in India is influenced by a combination of traditional and modern values, and it is important to be respectful and sensitive to cultural differences when conducting business in the country.

Where to Get More Help Expanding to India

If you’re looking to expand your business into India, it’s important to understand the local customs and business culture. A reputable employer of record provider with experience in India can help you navigate these waters and ensure a successful expansion. To find an employer of record provider in India, check out our detailed comparisons of EOR providers.

Top EOR Providers
Provider	Overall Company Rating	Overall Employee Rating	Overall EOR Rating
Horizons	5	5	5
Deel	5	5	5
Remote	5	5	5
GoGlobal	5	5	5
Globalization Partners	5	5	5