Nonverbal Communication in India

G reeting with 'namaste' - placing both hands together with a slight bow is a very common nonverbal communication and shows respect for Indian customs.

You can also shake hands; Men may shake hands with other men and women may shake hands with other women. There are seldom handshakes between men and women because of religious beliefs. If you are uncertain, wait for them to extend their hand.

Indians value personal space, therefore don't stand close to Indians, allow an arm's length space.

Public displays of affection are not proper.

Side to side hand wave is frequently interpreted by Indians as "no" or "go away."

Use your right hand only to touch someone, pass money or pick up merchandise. The left hand is considered unclean.

Do not touch anyone's head. The head is considered sensitive.

Never point with a single finger or two fingers. Point with your chin, whole hand or thumb.

When an Indian answers, "I will try," he or she generally means "no." This is considered a polite "no."

Pointing a finger at someone would be considered rude.

Nonverbal Communication in Japan

B owing is a customary nonverbal communication in Japan - Bowing during an introduction shows status. Business inferiors must bow lower than superiors.

Walking habits - The Japanese walk in short quick strides and drooping shoulders this low posture is called teishisei.

Eye Contact - eye contact shows that you are being aggressive, and rude. It is normal in Japan to avoid eye contact as it shows respect.

Pointing with the index finger is considered rude. You should point with the entire hand.

When entering a private home or traditional restaurants, it is usually customary to remove your shoes and place them with the toes pointing toward the outdoors.

Frowning while someone is speaking is interpreted as a sign of disagreement. Most Japanese maintain impassive expression when speaking.

Japanese find it hard to say 'no'. The best solution is to phrase questions so that they can answer yes. For example, do you disagree with this?

Nonverbal Communication in Mexico

S hake hands or give a slight bow when introduced.

Women (initiate the handshake) and Mexicans generally stand close together when conversing. Don't show signs of discomfort, which would be considered rude by your Mexican counterpart.

Don't stand with your hands on your hips; this signifies anger. It is considered rude to stand around with your hands in your pockets.

Time is a very flexible thing in Mexico. As such, don't be offended or surprised if your contacts in Mexico don't show up in time.

Nonverbal Communication in Nigeria

B e careful about eye contact. Constant and direct eye contact can be seeing as being intrusive. Therefore gazing at the shoulder level or the forehead is considered polite.

Touching or making gestures when speaking is very common and should not be interpreted as having any sexual undertone.

Don't use your left hand to give or receive objects. The left hand is considered unclean.

Shake hands upon meeting someone and don't forget to smile! Sometimes men may place their hand on the other person's shoulder during a handshake. Shake hands again upon departing.

Don't shake hands with a woman unless she initiates it.

Exchange hugs and kisses with people you know well.

To rush a greeting is extremely rude; spend time inquiring about the other person’s general well-being.

Thumb extended upward is considered a very rude signal.