Kingdom of Thailand

Way of Communicating

In Thailand when we meet older people whom we know very well we say “Sa-wat-dee-krum” for men and “Sa-wat-dee-ka” for women. We also join our both hands together call “Wai”. If you don’t know the other person well, you just say “Sa-wat-dee” without the hand gesture. We can use “Wai” in a business greeting or shake hands. But in formal life we just use “Wai” and not shake hands. We have a lot of non-verbal gestures for example, we shake our shoulder with means we don’t know but even that depends on the dialog because the gesture has many meanings.

Appearance and Style of Dress

In business, women always wear uniform and men wear shirts and ties. If they are in charge in high position they always wear a suit. Students wear uniform too. On a day off or a party, people can wear casual clothes. So when you have to contact with Thai business you have to wearing uniform or suit even it important or not.

If you want to give a business card in Thailand, you have to wait until the contact is finish or you can ask for the business card during conversation. When you get it just read a little and keep it in your pocket or your file. Nowadays, the boss in Thailand wants to make a contact by go golfing. You can talk everything in the golf field.

What, When and How We Eat

We eat three meals per day breakfast at 6-8AM, lunch at12-1PM and dinner at 6-8PM. Food chosen to eat depends on a person’s life style. We also use a spoon and fork for rice, and chopsticks for noodles. In business style you have to wait until everybody comes to the table and then a host will let you eat first, so you can eat or drink. You can feel free whether you want to talk about business or not.

Commitment to Time Schedule

In business we have to be on time for important appointment. If you can’t come on time, it is ok as long as it is not very late. If that happens, it is better call your company which you have an appointment.

How Much Space We Like Around Us

In real life or business we have to keep our personal distance around 2.5-3 feet. If you talk with your boy friend or girl friend you can get closer.