What Are the Business Norms of Communication for India?

The norms of business communication are those which are considered proper and respectful.  Due to cultural differences, there are numerous challenges to effectively communicating with Indian businesses.  Many managers in India rely on building long-term relationships when doing international business.

When communicating with an Indian business, one key thing to keep in mind is that India is a high power distance society. This means that the less powerful members accept without question decisions made by their superiors, due to the superior’s position of power. It is important to be willing to more completely accept authority than one may be used to doing.

Some other information that is helpful to be aware of is:

• Family is very important to Indians and meetings may begin with family inquiries. This is seen as a good way to establish meaningful dialogue later, so do not be too quick to move on to direct business conversation.


• India’s official languages are English and Hindi. Business, politics and education usually use English as it is deemed to be neutral.


• Never directly refuse an invitation since the word "No" has harsh implications in India. More polite and common is an evasive refusal. An acceptable refusal would be a vague "I’ll try" or “Yes, but it could prove difficult”.


• "Thank you" is considered a form of payment. It is considered insulting to thank your host.


• Wagging one finger is often construed as an insult, as is beckoning someone with your palm up.


• Always use professional titles as titles are very important in Indian culture.


• If you stand with your hands on your hips, it will be interpreted as an angry, aggressive posture.


• Apologize if your feet or shoes touch another person and never point your feet at a person. Feet are considered unclean.


• Business lunches are preferred to dinners.


• When scheduling appointments and meetings, punctuality is expected. Allowance is made for trains as they run on a flexible schedule and needs to be factored in.