1. Do your homework! A basic knowledge of the host culture will be richly rewarded.

2. Never embarrass anyone publicly or cause anyone to lose face: It will end a relationship.

3. Take your time and be patient. Relationships develop slowly.

4. When speaking, lower the normal volume of your voice. Never raise your voice in an attempt to overcome language difficulties.

5. Always be sincere. It shows. Sincerity is required to build trust. Trust is required to build a relationship.

6. Show respect for other cultures even if they seem strange. Asian cultures were highly developed while European civilization was still in its infancy.

7. Ask, look and listen! Asians are very proud of their culture and enjoy teaching others about their ways. A respectful interest will be appreciated.

8. Both spoken and body language in Asian culture are very different. When a problem develops, assume miscommunication was the cause.

9. Being liked is a “magic wand.” If people like you, they will forgive just about anything you might do wrong.

10. Assume the best about people and their actions. Most people do what seems appropriate to them based on their values, habits, and traditions.

Based on: Bosrock, Mary Murray. Put Your Best Foot Forward: Asia: A Fearless Guide to International Communication and Behavior (St. Paul, MN: International Education Systems, 1997).