We are living in a digital age that empowers the entrepreneur to do business globally and Bangkok, Thailand has become a hub for digital nomads who manage their business from any location. If you are planning to attend several business seminars or an important meeting in the City of Angels, we put together a few useful pointers to help you enjoy a successful outcome.
- Dress suitably – Bangkok can be very hot; wear light cotton that allows your body to breathe; the last thing you want is to show up at the plush conference Room in Bangkok soaked in perspiration; indeed, while in Bangkok, it makes total sense to have a few business shirts and a suit made by local tailors. If the meeting is not in an office environment, smart casual is perfectly acceptable
- Let your host pay – If you are in Thailand to meet with local businesspeople, they regard themselves as your host and image is very important in Thai culture; if a foreigner insisted on picking up a tab, this would make the host lose face, which is a big no-no. Enjoy the experience and should they ever visit your home country, you can return their hospitality.
- Thai lateness – Thai people tend not to be the best in the punctuality stakes; they always blame the traffic, which can be horrendous! It is always best to arrive a little early, you can grab a coffee and go over your documentation.
- Take your time – Thais rarely get straight to the point when it comes to talking business, so don’t be surprised if the conversation centres around family, likes etc, which might last until the end of the meeting. This can be annoying for a foreign business person who is direct in their manner, just have the patience and when in Rome. Click here to find out why every business needs a digital marketing strategy.
- Use Google Translate – If language becomes a barrier, go straight to Google Translate, which works really well. The Thai speaks into the mic and English returns like magic! Admittedly, translation apps were rough around the edges, but with AI managed solutions, it is now very usable and fast!
- Stay hydrated – It is oh so easy to become dehydrated in a tropical climate, especially in the months of April and May; it makes sense to carry a bottle of drinking water. It is recommended that you drink 6-8 glasses of water per day.
- Thai etiquette – It is considered impolite to touch a Thai person on the head, while point the feet at a person is also frowned upon. Thais generally wai each other when meeting, although those educated in the west would likely shake your hand, and when you are a guest, don’t worry, your host will take care of everything.
So, there you have it, our guide to doing business in Bangkok, Thailand; we hope it helps you in your preparation.