 Americans
tend to be "all business". We get in, zip through the greetings,
discuss the important stuff and leave… But this is not how
things are done in Korean companies and according to Korean business
etiquette.
Koreans place a great deal of importance on relationships. If
you don't take the time to establish a personal connection, your
Korean buyer, seller or partner may not be comfortable enough to
do business with you or, even if they do, they might not place
as much importance on your business as they would otherwise..
So here's an important rule about Korean business culture: "When
meeting Koreans on business, establish a relationship." Don't
be afraid to engage in some friendly small talk before and after
your meeting. In fact, ask your counterpart about Korea and some
aspects of his heritage. Are you visiting Korea on business?
Then mention some of the things you've really enjoyed while being
there (and skip the things you didn't like!) If you're meeting
Koreans in the US, check how they're enjoying their visit to
America, where they've been and what they've seen… In
fact, the cultural aspect is a fantastic starting point for discussion
and will help you avoid coming across as a "business-only
American".
Another great way to show that you understand Korean business
culture is to invite your Korean counterpart out to lunch or dinner.
On the other hand, Koreans don't generally invite others into their
homes as easily as Americans might and you'll do better to pick
a nice restaurant. Furthermore, do not "go Dutch".
When Koreans eat out, someone always pays the whole bill. If you're
the seller or the person that did the inviting, you should pick
up the entire tab - even if your Korean counterparts pretend to
want to pay.
 Gift giving is common in Korean society and the value of these
gifts can be higher than
you might be used to in the US. A great gift is something
representing your hometown. From Memphis? Take Elvis memorabilia.
From Dallas? How about some cowboy mugs? Giving a gift like this
shows that you understand business etiquette in Korea and will
help you be more effective when doing business with Koreans.
Of course, Americans value relationships too but we don't let
them "get in the way" of business. Take a little more
time to get to know your Korean counterparts and watch your business
with Korea flourish.
Doing business in Korea, planning
to do so, or want to explore opportunities in Korea? Check out
our main web site at:
www.koreanconsulting.com or contact us today at: sbammel@koreanconsulting.com.
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