Cultural Research Report on Vietnam

This independence slowly dwindled and by 1885, the French was in control of almost all of Vietnam. In July of 1954 a peace talk called, The 1954 Geneva Agreement, was orchestrated.

This agreement resulted in the French no longer ruling Vietnam. In 1992 Vietnamese government was reorganized by the Communist Party of Vietnam. The state remained one-party but their freedom increased economically. Although Vietnamese freedom is still limited, they have a mixed economy that grew at an extremely fast pace. Vietnamese rapid economy growth was such a success because of renovation in 1986.

Another term for renovation in Vietnam is, “Doi Mo'”.

The Sixth Party Congress approved this reform, causing many doors to open economically. Vietnam now had access to foreign investment, an excellent business climate, and market reforms. After this fortunate door-opener, Vietnam was known as one of the most rapid- growing economies worldwide. Business Culture: Meetings: Like any other expected requirement when it comes to conducting a business meeting, it is always important for an individual to be on time. Business meetings may not always start on time, however, in Vietnam it is still expected that everyone arrive on time (as it is in America).

In Vietnam seniority is very important. Therefore, when in a business meeting, one should always postpone their conversation/ interaction with the person in charge. Also, patience plays a big role during business meetings. What American’s may think are awkward moments of silence are totally normal and expected in Vietnam. It is very important that one does not interrupt the moments of silence. Interruptions are not limited to Just speaking out.

Making certain impatient gestures or faces can also be a type of interruption as well. Always address a person by their professional title.

If they are Dry. , Mrs.. , or Ms.

, address them as that followed by their last name. Because business is now being conducted in Vietnam, business cards should not only be written in English but in Vietnamese as well. A good idea is to have one side of the business card in English and the other side in Vietnamese. DRESS: In Vietnam the expected business attire is pretty similar to the business attire in America. One will never go wrong with a clean, cut, and conservative appearance.

Men should wear a suit and tie. Women can also wear a suite as well as a business appropriate dress or skirt.

Colors such as grey, black, white, or black are all safe colors. Steer clear of bright colors or anything that draws a lot of attention. Women should not wear anything that is short, tight, or revealing.

Anything flashy or expensive is frowned upon in Vietnam. For example, Christian Lobbying heels, Gucci belts, and expensive Jewelry should be left at home. More casual business attire is acceptable later on down the line once a better business relationship has been established. COMMUNICATING: When communicating in a Vietnamese business setting it is always good to remain calm.

It is very important to greet in order of seniority.

In Vietnam, posture and maintaining a substantial amount of personal space is important, as it is in America. In America it is impressive to have a firm handshake. In Vietnam it is the opposite. A more modest handshake is better. Sometimes in more formal settings the Vietnamese use two hands.

If one shakes your hand and bows be sure to follow suit. Always smile, even when you are uncomfortable. It’s somewhat serves the same purpose that a “poker face” would. If eye contact is avoided, it means that the individual does not agree with what the other is saying.

It is important to limit contact with the opposite sex physically. Pointing and hand gestures are frowned upon.

Instead of pointing open the palm of your hand to direct attention towards meeting. It is important to use both of your hands when you are handing something to another person. In Vietnam it is normal for the same sex to hold hands while walking in a business setting. This displays a sign of comfort. Lastly, it is always better to imply what you are saying rather than actually coming out and saying exactly what you mean. Negotiating: In Vietnam, negotiation requires patience.

Decision making comes from the top dog and they take their time giving an answer. When rejecting one, the Vietnamese may respond saying, “maybe”. Sometimes they may even tell a person “yes” when they know that they answer is “no”. This goes back to the Vietnamese not directly saying what they mean and instead implying what they would really like to say. The way Americans push a sell and the tactics they use to make a sell are frowned upon in Vietnam. It is important to remember to remain patient, humble, and focus on building a business relationship.

If a woman is greeting a woman then, once again, a handshake is not required. Simply nod and that is the proper way to greet another woman. In Vietnam, public affection is not very common. This is considered to be private life and excess affection displayed in public is frowned upon and considered disrespectful to others. Because of this, men and women in Vietnam are usually modest when it comes to dating in a social setting.

The men in Vietnam are not known to be very aggressive. In Vietnam it is safe for a woman to walk by herself at night without worrying about anything happening to her.

The crime rate in Vietnam is not high. However, petty theft is high. It is stressed for one to keep their purses/ bags close by them to prevent them from being snatched and to not wear a lot of jewelry. It is important to always give an individual the right amount of personal space and avoid excessive touching.

If one remains arm’s length away from someone they would be fine. Crossing your arms could appear as a threat to others so avoid doing so. Also, try your best not to touch anyone too much. Touching is an invasion of one’s personal space and is frowned upon.