Isabella: Matthew, do you know much about body language in countries around the world?

  Matthew: Sure. I’ve picked up a few things from travelling around for work. Why?

  I: Well, I had a meeting today with a woman from Japan and she wouldn’t stop bowing! I didn’t know what to do!

  M: Did you bow back?

  I: No, I tried to shake her hand, but her hand was so limp I was a bit offended.

  M: Well, Japanese businessmen and women typically bow to greet each other in Japan. She might have been offended by your strong handshake.

  I: But she was in America! Shouldn’t she have known that strong handshakes in America signify confidence and respect?

  M: Things are different in Japan. You know, in some countries, making eye contact with others is considered rude.

  I: Is that why she wouldn’t look at me in the meeting?

  M: I think it’s highly possible, yes.

  I: The meeting really didn’t go down well at all. I think I need to read up about intercultural communication before I have another meeting with someone from another country.

  M: That’s a good idea. When you don’t know much about other cultures, the simplest thing can offend someone.

  I: That’s so true. It’s great that we see eye to eye on this.