Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trial
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands summary
Terri Morrison
Brief summary
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison is a guide to international business etiquette that offers valuable insights and advice on how to navigate cultural differences and build successful global relationships.
Topics
Table of Contents
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands
Summary of key ideas
Understanding Cultural Differences in Business
In Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison, we are introduced to the concept of cultural intelligence and its importance in international business. The book begins by emphasizing the significance of understanding cultural differences in business interactions. It explains that a lack of cultural awareness can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and even lost business opportunities.
The author then delves into the specifics of business etiquette in various countries. She explains that in some cultures, such as Japan, bowing is the traditional form of greeting, while in others, such as France, a kiss on the cheek is customary. In many Western countries, a firm handshake is the norm. Understanding and respecting these customs is crucial for successful business relationships.
Country-Specific Business Etiquette
After establishing the importance of cultural awareness, Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands provides detailed insights into the business customs of various countries. The book covers a wide range of countries, including China, India, Brazil, Russia, and many others. For each country, the author explains the cultural context, business practices, communication styles, negotiation tactics, and even the role of women in business.
For example, in China, business relationships are built on trust and personal connections, so it is essential to invest time in building rapport before discussing business matters. In contrast, in Germany, business is more formal and direct, and punctuality is highly valued. Understanding these differences can make or break a business deal.
Adapting to Different Business Cultures
As we progress through Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands, we learn that adapting to different business cultures is not just about following specific customs. It also involves understanding the underlying values and beliefs that shape these customs. For instance, in some cultures, such as Japan, the concept of 'face' or social reputation is crucial, and saving face is a top priority. In contrast, in the United States, direct communication and assertiveness are valued.
The book emphasizes that successful international business interactions require a high degree of cultural sensitivity, flexibility, and adaptability. It's not about changing who you are, but rather about understanding and respecting who others are and adjusting your behavior accordingly.
Practical Tips for International Business Success
To conclude, Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands offers practical tips for navigating international business successfully. It advises on everything from appropriate dress codes to gift-giving customs, from dining etiquette to negotiation strategies. The book also provides a comprehensive checklist for preparing for international business trips, ensuring that no cultural detail is overlooked.
In essence, Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands serves as a comprehensive guide to international business etiquette. It emphasizes the importance of cultural intelligence, provides detailed insights into various business customs, and offers practical advice for adapting to different business cultures. By following the book's guidance, business professionals can build stronger international relationships and achieve greater success in the global marketplace.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands about?
Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison is a comprehensive guide to international business etiquette. It provides valuable insights into the customs, traditions, and communication styles of different countries, helping professionals navigate the complexities of global business interactions. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a novice in the international arena, this book offers practical advice to ensure successful cross-cultural relationships.
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands Review
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison is a practical guide that explores the cultural customs and business etiquette around the world. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers insightful tips and strategies to help navigate cross-cultural interactions, enabling readers to build successful relationships in international business.
- The book provides in-depth research and analysis of different cultures, including detailed advice on greetings, communication styles, and negotiation techniques.
- With its engaging anecdotes and relatable examples, the book brings cultural differences to life, making it both informative and entertaining.
Who should read Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
- Business professionals looking to expand their global etiquette knowledge
- Travelers who want to understand and respect the customs of different countries
- Anyone interested in improving their cross-cultural communication skills
Categories with Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands
Book summaries like Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.7 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
35 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands FAQs
What is the main message of Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
The main message of Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands is understanding cultural differences to successfully navigate international business interactions.
How long does it take to read Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
The reading time for Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands varies depending on the reader's speed. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands a good book? Is it worth reading?
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands is worth reading for its practical guidance on cross-cultural communication and business etiquette.
Who is the author of Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
Terri Morrison is the author of Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands.
How many chapters are in Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
There are 10 chapters in Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands.
How many pages are in Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands contains 368 pages.
When was Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands published?
Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands was published in 1994.
What to read after Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands?
If you're wondering what to read next after Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Start with Why (old version) by Simon Sinek
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
- Good to Great (old version) by Jim Collins
- Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey A. Moore
- Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh
- Built to Last by Jim Collins
- Start-up of You by Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha
- The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau
- Inspired by Marty Cagan
- ReWork by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson