Hakan Ozel, Vice President Operations & General Manager, Shangri-La Dubai
I must share this: one of the most valuable experiences that I gained over my decades of luxury hotel business life, hence feel exceptionally fortunate, is learning and practicing multicultural manners.
In today’s increasingly interconnected world, interaction with people from different cultures is not only just usual, but also inevitable. Whether in the workplace, during travel, or upon social engagement with people, our lives are shaped by the rich variety of global cultures. Knowing how to navigate the differences of multicultural manners is therefore essential. Understanding and respecting the customs, values, and etiquette of various cultures fosters harmonious relationships, minimizes or eliminates misunderstandings, and enriches our collective experience.
The Importance of Multicultural Manners
Manners are more than simple rules of politeness; they are the outward expression of a culture’s values and beliefs. When we interact across cultures, our own behaviors, what we say, how we say it, and how we physically express ourselves, can be interpreted very differently. What is considered respectful in one culture may be seen as rude or inappropriate in another. As such, cultivating cultural awareness and adaptability is a valuable skill.
In professional environments like luxury hotel business, multicultural manners facilitate effective collaboration, team-working, negotiation, and problem-solving. They help to build trust and rapport, both of which are essential for success in international business. In personal relationships, they demonstrate empathy and openness, building bridges across perceived divides.
General Principles of Multicultural Etiquette
While each culture has its own set of social rules, there are some universal principles that can guide respectful interaction and guide us to meaningful relationships. When we are open-minded and welcoming, we can approach every new culture with curiosity rather than judgment. We then realize that differences are not deficits, but enrichment. When we are observant in unfamiliar situations, it would be wise to observe, particularly how locals behave, how they greet one another and what topics they discuss or avoid. Politeness is always a key to respect in return. When unsure, it is acceptable to ask, with humility, about local customs. Most people appreciate the effort to learn. If we are adaptable, we have a willingness to adjust our own behavior to fit the expectations of the host culture, especially when we are a guest. And finally, above all, we show respect for the people, their beliefs, and their traditions, even if they differ from our own.
Some Examples of Multicultural Manners
Greetings and Communication:
One of the most obvious areas where cultures differ is in greetings. For example, a firm handshake is a sign of confidence in many Western cultures. In contrast, a gentle handshake is preferred in some Asian countries, while in some countries, bowing is common and conveys respect. In parts of the Middle East, greetings may involve a kiss on the cheek or a warm embrace, but these gestures may not be appropriate between opposite genders.
Language and communication styles also vary. Some cultures value indirect communication and may avoid saying “no” outright in order to maintain harmony. In contrast, in some countries, people appreciate directness and clarity with straight answers. Nonverbal cues, such as eye contact, gestures, and personal space can also have different meanings. For instance, maintaining eye contact is considered confident and honest in some countries whereas it may be seen as challenging or disrespectful in some Asian or African cultures.
Dining Etiquette:
Sharing food is a universal way to build relationships, yet dining customs are incredibly diverse. In India and the Middle East, eating with the right hand is customary, as the left hand is considered inappropriate. Meanwhile, in Western cultures, both hands are used with knife and fork. In some countries, it is polite to lift a bowl of rice to your mouth and eat with chopsticks, however, sticking chopsticks upright in rice is taboo, as it resembles a funeral ritual. Table manners also differ. In some countries, keeping hands on the table but not elbows is expected, while in some others, hands are generally kept on the lap between courses. Being aware of these differences helps avoid awkwardness and shows appreciation for the host.
Gift-Giving Customs:
The act of giving gifts is burdened with cultural significance. In some countries, gifts are often wrapped elaborately, and there is a ritual to both giving and receiving them. In those cultures, gifts are presented with both hands, and it is polite to refuse a gift a couple of times before accepting. In some cultures, gifts should not be too extravagant, and it is important to avoid gifts that might carry inappropriate implications. In some Western countries, gifts are usually opened immediately; in others, they may be set aside to be opened later, as opening in front of the giver can be seen as impolite.
Dress Codes and Modesty:
Appropriate dress is another area where multicultural manners come into play. What is considered casual or formal in one country may be quite different elsewhere. In many parts of the Middle East and South Asia, modest attire is important, particularly in religious or formal settings. This may mean covering the arms, legs, or head. In most Western countries, dress codes tend to be more relaxed, but even so, there are settings where business or formal attire is expected. Understanding local dress norms is a sign of respect.
Challenges and Opportunities
It is easy to make mistakes in cross-cultural situations, and misunderstandings will occur. However, most people are forgiving if they see a genuine effort to be respectful. Apologizing when a misstep is made, and expressing a willingness to learn, often turns an awkward moment into an opportunity for connection. In fact, sharing stories about differences in customs can stimulate lively conversation and deepen relationships.
The Value of Multicultural Manners
In embracing multicultural manners, we do more than just avoid offense but open ourselves to the richness of human diversity. We learn new perspectives, expand our worldview, and develop empathy for others’ experiences. Practicing good manners across cultures reflects not only respect for others but also a respect for the complexity and beauty of the world we share. We become tolerant, which is the key of harmonious living. As the world becomes more interconnected, navigating cultural differences with grace and understanding becomes not just a personal asset, but a collective responsibility. By practicing multicultural manners, we contribute to a more harmonious, inclusive, and understanding global community.
