Social norms are : * The accepted behaviors within a society or group. * The rules or behavior that is accepted by a group of people, in terms of beliefs, attitudes, and values. * It is also described as ‘customary rules of behavior that coordinate our interactions with others’.
Social Norms and Customs of The United Kingdom
The People * The United Kingdom is made up of 4 countries : * England * Scotland * Wales * Northern Ireland
* Residents of any of those countries may be called : * British * English * Scot * Scotsman * Welsh * Irish * Northern Irish
* The characteristics of residents of the 4 countries : …show more content…
* Expects formalities and protocols to be followed. * Meetings should be scheduled well in advance. * Presentations should be detailed and subdued.
Dining and Entertainment * Summon a waiter by raising your hand. * The host, the one who extends the invitation, pays the bill. * Do not discuss business at dinner in someone’s house unless invited by the host. * When invited to someone’s home, arrive on time or at least 10 minutes after the stated time. * Wait for the host to begin eating before you eat. * Keep your hands on the table at all times during the meal. * Keep your elbows off the table at all times during the meal. * After the meal, place knife and fork side by side on the plate. * Leave the dinner party shortly after the dinner ends. * Write a thank you note to the host. * It is impolite to ask for a tour in your host’s home.
Social Norms and Customs of Malaysia
The People * Multicultural Nation. * Malay * Chinese * Indian * Important festivals of each ethnic group are public holidays. * Few marry outside their own ethnicity. – all part of retaining their individual traditions and …show more content…
* The desire to maintain face makes Malaysians strive for harmonious relationships.
Meeting and Greeting * In general, most Malays are aware of Western ways, so the handshake is normal. * There may be a few things to bear in mind : * Malay women may not shake hands with men. * Women can of course shake hands with women. * Men may also not shake hands with women and may bow instead while placing their hand on their heart. * The Chinese handshake is light and may be rather prolonged. * Men and women may shake hands, although the woman must extend her hand first. * Many older Chinese lower their eyes during the greeting as a sign of respect. * Indians shake hands with members of the same sex. * When being introduced to someone of the opposite sex, nodding the head and smiling is usually sufficient. * Among all cultures, there is a general tendency to introduce: * The most important person to the lower ranking person. * The older person to the younger person. * Women to men.
Gift Giving Etiquette
Here are some general gift giving etiquette guidelines: * Gift giving to Malays