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| Taipei
Culture Guide |
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The Taiwanese are friendly although somewhat reserved.
They are not wary of foreigners, and will often go out of their
way to be chivalrous.
They are cosmopolitan maybe because of the number of people who have been overseas in the past decade.
Before the borders were relaxed in 1987, few of the people had a chance to go abroad and be exposed to the outside world. Before 1987, Taiwanese exhibited an industriousness that has gradually
vanished. Before that time, all managers wanted to have their own
companies.
The work ethic is still very good; absenteeism
is not much, productivity is excellent, and quality is superb. But
most young executives would rather settle down at a large multinational
company with a really flashy office rather than start a small trading
firm of their own, as many executives before them did.
Taiwanese will rarely show anger in public,
but it is not unheard of. Don’t get angry in front of a Taiwanese.
The loss of face on both sides will be massive and any misunderstanding
may be interpreted as a threat. If pushed too far, Taiwanese will
show anger, and foreigners are not excluded from their wrath.
Most customs followed in business have gone by
the wayside in the past few years as more and more Taiwanese have
been exposed to foreigners, and as more new managers are educated
abroad. About the only thing visitors really should not do is burst
into an office or setting and draw attention to themselves and their
business partners. Stay discreet. Shake hands but do not try to
kiss the opposite sex like it's done in France.
Do not beckon a person with one finger as this is considered very
rude. As a matter of fact, it is better not to summon anyone from
a distance. It's better to walk to the person you wish to call. |
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