Country Customary Information: Bangladesh is a hierarchical society where people are respected by their position and age. Greetings usually take place between members of the same sex. Personal space isn’t a big issue, as they often stand close together when speaking to someone of the same sex. If a man is speaking to a woman often times space is increased. The international dialing code is +880 and Bangladesh is +6 hours GMT.
Communication Etiquette: The handshake is common but often times it will be weak, or limp. If people are the same age, they will use their first names. Age dictates how people are addressed. They are often indirect communicators, often trying to communicate in long contextualized sentences. Personal space isn’t a big issue, as they often stand close together when speaking to someone of the same sex. If a man is speaking to a woman often times space is increased.
Business Etiquette: The etiquette in the business culture is pretty formal. Businessmen should be addressed by the term, ”Bahadur (Sir),” while women may be addressed as “Begum (Madam).” Business cards are exchanged upon introduction; educational qualifications are valued so include any university degrees. Treat their card with respect, and place into a cardholder. Completing each meeting completely has more value then any set schedule; so many meetings may extend for longer periods of time. A serious face is said to demonstrate maturity. This will be appreciated because Bangladesh is a social hierarchy.
