In Thailand, a simple bow of the head is preferable to a handshake. The traditional “wai” (hands in prayer position while bowing) is best avoided for fear of breaching the rules of etiquette.

In London, the woes of public transport are a sure-fire way of reviving flagging conversation In keeping with their political system, the Swiss are experts at consensus building, and will happily debate an issue until all parties are satisfied. Good manners mean that a Mexican will sometimes be evasive to avoid disappointing. “Maybe”, “probably”, “I think so”, and “I’ll have to check” often mean “no”.

Your Russian counterparts may insist that they understand something, when this is not actually the case. Moreover, they sometimes have a tendency to say things they think you want to hear. If doing business in France, remain polite and cordial during a first meeting and keep in mind that the French tend to be suspicious of early friendliness. Many French consider effusive smiles to be de trop. A polite nod of the head will win you more respect.

Germans are quite likely to draw attention to deficiencies in your products or services if they do not correspond to your claims. This is simply because they see nothing wrong in pointing out facts. Usually Germans rap gently their knuckles on the tabletop at the end of a presentation or a meeting. It is done instead of applauding and can be regarded as a signal of their approval.

When bidding farewell to a group of Indian colleagues, take time to address each person individually. In China, “Bu fangbian” (“It is not convenient”) is a polite way of saying that something is impossible or very difficult.