Vietnamese Culture

Since Vietnam has escaped from being embargoed and done business with other countries around the world , it has shown some rapid growth . Therefore , many firms and multinational companies has seen Vietnam as an ideal place to invest and start business . However , in order not to face cultural catastrophe , there are some points that need to be paid attention to .

Initially , before entering the market , firms and companies should make a lot of research  on price , market segments and so on . In Vietnam , best prices and offers often come from a strong recommendation and if you’re looking for an advisory for your business , Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry ( or VCCI ) or any business advisory is highly suggested .

Besides , since there is no doubt that interaction with Vietnamese people will occur , sooner or later , it is a must that we should fully comprehend about business relationship in Vietnam . There are two things that need to be mentioned : First is about the turning from business-oriented relationship into social-oriented relationship and second is the vitalization of seniority in Vietnam . Unlike US people that focus entirely on business , professionalism  Vietnamese people have a strong tendency towards the sharing in personal life , family , political viewpoints when they’re doing business . Hence , the durability of your business relationship depends on the strength of relationship that irrelevant to business matter . Moreover , because hierarchy is existed in Vietnam culture , you should pay respects to the senior , including calling one’s name by his or her position ( for example , Chairman Triet , Director Dung ) , giving out a business card or brochure with both hand and facing the card in the correct position to the receiver . By doing that , people won’t take it offensively and you’ll avoid conflicts which will ruin your working prospects in the long-run .

Furthermore , giving face is also an important factor in Vietnam culture . You are expected to give the appropriate respect to people according to their rank and seniority , which including the gift-selecting and the arrangement of the seats in a meeting room .

Additionally , since most business luncheons and dinners are held in hotels , restaurants or government facilities , business recreation is something that can’t be forgotten . An invitation for a return party as a reciprocation is essential . Moreover ,  the using of chopstick instead of eating utensils , exchanging toasts , some flowery speeches about Vietnam’s landscape ,… and the first-moving with handshaking are really crucial in a business party .

In conclusion , firms and companies should dig deeper into the Vietnamese Business Culture in order to avoid some misunderstanding that could severely sabotaged your progress in Vietnam . Social-oriented relationship , the important of seniority and business entertainment are vital in Vietnam culture .