Nonverbal Communication in Russia

A handshake is always appropriate when greeting or leaving.

Don't shake hands over a threshold (Russian belief holds that this action will lead to an argument).

Public physical contact is common. Hugs, backslapping, kisses on the cheeks are common among friends or acquaintances and between members of the same sex.

Russians stand close when talking.

When a Russian touches another person during conversation, it is usually a sign of confidence.

The “thumbs-up” sign can be an acceptable gesture of approval.

Putting your thumb through your index and middle fingers or making the "OK" sign is considered very rude gestures in Russia.

Speaking or laughing loudly in public is discouraged.

Nonverbal Communication in Thailand

T he traditional Thai greeting is called the wai. In general, the younger person greets first, by placing the palms together at chest level and bowing slightly. If someone wai to you, it is polite to wai back.

In giving or receiving gifts or passing things, Thais ordinarily use the right hand. They place the left hand under the right elbow, and bow the head slightly.

Do not touch another person’s head. The head is considered sacred, since it is the source of intelligence and spiritual substance.

The feet come in contact with the ground, and thus are considered to be dirty. Pointing the bottom of your feet at someone can be interpreted as an insult.

Remove your shoes before entering a temple or a home.

It is rude to sit with your ankle crossed over a knee, or to place an arm over the back of someone’s chair.

A smile is often used for an apology, and a nod doesn't mean yes, it is simply a gesture of respect.

Nonverbal Communication in Turkey

P eople greet each other with a two-handed handshake or by a kiss on both cheeks.

It is very common to see two man holding hands or arm in arm at walking on the street This means that they are just good friends.

Waving a hand up and down at you, palm towards the ground, is a signal for you to come.

Elders are highly respected. If you are seated, rise to greet them when they enter a room.

Don't cross your arms or put your hands in your pockets while facing or talking to someone.

Inclining your head forwards means ‘yes’ and inclining your head backwards and raising eyebrows means ‘No’

In most countries when thumb and index finger form a circle it means “Okay”. In Turkey it means homosexual and is considered a big insult.

Turned-up palm and fingers held together forming a small ”bowl”: means “good”, and is used when commenting on food.

Turks tend to stare at one another and at foreigners.

Turks will stand close to you while conversing. Do not back away, as this can be construed as unfriendly.

It is vital that you maintain eye contact while speaking since Turks take this as a sign of sincerity.

Pressing your thumb on your upper teeth is a sign of fear.

Nonverbal Communication in United Arab Emirates (uae)

P lacing hands on the heart shows genuine respect and humility. Sometimes, this is used in combination with a small bow, meaning thank you.

Scratching or holding of a chin or beard is an indication that someone is thinking. It might be wise to wait until the person has finished thinking before continuing talking.

Friends' kissing each other on the cheek is a sign of friendship, and it is common amongst male friends.

Shaking hand is the normal greeting with a male. Females do shake hands with each other, and occasionally a kiss is shared. Males should not shake hand with a female unless the hand is offered by a female.

Touching noses three times when shaking hands is a traditional Bedouin greeting.

Holding hands for a long period after shaking hands is a sign of friendship

A Hug is an indication that you are considered a trustworthy friend. A refusal to touch may suggest that you are believed to be untrustworthy or unclean.

If an Arab bites their right finger, it is a sign of contempt and that you are not liked.

If a semi clenched hand is placed in front of the stomach, it means that you are thought to be a liar.

Placing finger on the Nose, beard or head means that it is the intention of the person to undertake what you are talking about.

Putting all fingers and thumbs together (like a cup) means; 'Wait just one minute' or 'slow down'.

If the fingers of the left hand are clasped together and touched with the right forefinger, this is the equivalent of giving someone the finger in the West.

A clawing action with the right hand is usually indicative of a beckoning to move closer or to come into a room. Never beckon anyone with one finger pointing up

The sole of the foot is dirty - never point the sole of your foot in the direction of an Arab.

When offered something to drink, always say yes. Saying no would mean rejecting someone's hospitality.