1.
When greeting someone for the first time, a cupped handshake (in which my left hand covers the normal handshake) is a good way to show my sincerity and interest.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A cupped handshake is not a good way to show sincerity and interest when greeting someone for the first time. It may come across as overly familiar or invasive, and could make the other person uncomfortable. A normal handshake is generally more appropriate and respectful in such situations.
2.
In Japan, gift-giving protocol dictates that it is best to avoid offering gifts wrapped in which color wrapping paper?
Correct Answer
C. White
Explanation
In Japan, gift-giving protocol dictates that it is best to avoid offering gifts wrapped in white wrapping paper. White is associated with funerals and mourning in Japanese culture, so giving a gift wrapped in white may be seen as inappropriate or inconsiderate. It is important to be aware of cultural customs and traditions when giving gifts in different countries.
3.
Who goes through a revolving door first, the host or the visitor?
Correct Answer
C. Either A or B
Explanation
The correct answer is "Either A or B" because there is no specific rule or protocol that dictates who should go through a revolving door first. It can vary depending on the situation or cultural norms. The host may choose to go first as a gesture of politeness, or the visitor may go first as a sign of respect. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference or mutual agreement between the individuals involved.
4.
When is it okay to send confidential information via email or to discuss client business on a cell/mobile phone in a semi-private area?
Correct Answer
D. Never
Explanation
It is never okay to send confidential information via email or discuss client business on a cell/mobile phone in a semi-private area. This is because email can be easily intercepted or hacked, and discussing sensitive information in a semi-private area can still risk the information being overheard or recorded. It is always best to use secure and encrypted communication channels when dealing with confidential information.
5.
When dining in India, which hand should you eat with?
Correct Answer
B. Right hand
Explanation
In Indian culture, it is considered customary to eat with the right hand. The right hand is considered pure and clean, while the left hand is traditionally associated with activities like cleaning oneself after using the restroom. Therefore, using the right hand to eat is seen as more hygienic and respectful.
6.
In which countries should the "OK" sign be avoided (thumb and forefinger forming a circle with other three fingers splayed upward)?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The "OK" sign should be avoided in all of the mentioned countries: France, Germany, Japan, and Brazil. In these countries, the gesture is considered offensive or vulgar. It is important to be aware of cultural differences and avoid using gestures that may be misunderstood or offensive in different countries.
7.
When at meetings at which people are wearing name tags, the best place to put my name tag is on my left chest area.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The correct answer is False. When at meetings where people are wearing name tags, the best place to put my name tag is on my right chest area. This is because when shaking hands with someone, their eyes will naturally be drawn to your right side, making it easier for them to read your name tag. Placing it on the left side may cause them to have to awkwardly shift their gaze.
8.
Forming an “O” with the thumb and the forefinger in Japan means that we can now discuss money
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Japan, forming an "O" with the thumb and the forefinger is a common gesture that signifies the discussion of money. This cultural practice indicates that it is acceptable and appropriate to talk about financial matters. Therefore, the statement "Forming an 'O' with the thumb and the forefinger in Japan means that we can now discuss money" is true.
9.
Laughter in Japan can be a sign of confusion, insecurity or embarrassment
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Japan, laughter can indicate various emotions such as confusion, insecurity, or embarrassment. This cultural context differs from Western cultures where laughter is often associated with happiness or amusement. In Japan, people may laugh in uncomfortable situations to alleviate tension or to express unease. Therefore, it is true that laughter in Japan can be a sign of confusion, insecurity, or embarrassment.
10.
In Mediterranean cultures, being boisterous in the streets and public places is widely accepted
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Mediterranean cultures, it is widely accepted to be boisterous in the streets and public places. This means that people in these cultures are often loud, energetic, and expressive when out in public. This cultural norm allows for a lively and vibrant atmosphere in these spaces, where people feel comfortable being themselves and expressing their emotions openly.
11.
In Brazil, purple flowers are a symbol of friendship
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. In Brazil, purple flowers are not specifically recognized as a symbol of friendship. Different cultures have different meanings associated with flower colors, but in Brazil, purple flowers do not hold any particular symbolism related to friendship.
12.
In all but one of the following countries it is expected that you bring a gift to a business meeting. In which country is it NOT expected?
Correct Answer
B. Denmark
Explanation
In Denmark, it is not expected to bring a gift to a business meeting. This may be due to the cultural norms and business practices in the country. While bringing a gift is a common practice in many countries, it is not seen as necessary or expected in Denmark. Instead, the focus is often on the meeting agenda and the exchange of ideas and information rather than material gifts.
13.
In Saudi Arabia, which is considered a popular gesture of friendship between men?
Correct Answer
A. Holding hands while walking
Explanation
In Saudi Arabia, holding hands while walking is considered a popular gesture of friendship between men. This cultural practice is seen as a sign of trust, closeness, and camaraderie among male friends. It is a common sight to see men walking hand in hand in public without any romantic connotations. This gesture reflects the strong bonds and social norms within Saudi Arabian society, where physical touch is more accepted and encouraged among close friends and family members.
14.
In Great Britain, tapping your nose indicates that something is:
Correct Answer
C. Confidential
Explanation
Tapping your nose in Great Britain is a gesture used to indicate that something is confidential. This gesture is commonly understood as a way to convey secrecy or to signal that information should not be shared with others. It is a non-verbal way of implying that the information being discussed should be kept private and not disclosed to anyone else.
15.
When treating a client to a business meal in China, the most appropriate tipping strategy would be:
Correct Answer
D. No tip at all
Explanation
In China, it is not customary to tip at restaurants. Tipping may even be seen as rude or disrespectful. The price of the meal is expected to cover the service provided. Therefore, the most appropriate tipping strategy when treating a client to a business meal in China would be no tip at all.
16.
The use of leather clothing in India is offensive
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement suggests that the use of leather clothing in India is offensive. The answer "True" implies that it is indeed considered offensive to wear leather clothing in India. This could be due to cultural or religious beliefs that prohibit the use of animal products, including leather. It is important to respect and understand different cultural norms and values when it comes to clothing choices.
17.
The use of the word "no" in Japan can be offensive
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In Japanese culture, the use of the word "no" can be considered offensive because it is seen as confrontational or negative. Japanese people tend to avoid direct refusals or negative responses in order to maintain harmony and avoid conflict. Instead, they often use indirect language or non-verbal cues to convey their disagreement or refusal. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of this cultural nuance when communicating with Japanese individuals to avoid causing offense.
18.
The man must first extend his hand to shake a womens hand.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
In many cultures, it is considered polite for a man to wait for a woman to extend her hand for a handshake, rather than the other way around. This is because some women may not feel comfortable initiating physical contact. Therefore, the statement that the man must first extend his hand to shake a woman's hand is false.