Greetings

In Vietnam, people often say hello to each other with different status and age in relation to the speaker. For example, “Hi, aunt!”, “Hello, uncle!”, “Hello, older brother!” and “Hello! Hi! See you! Bye!” is popular.

Sometimes they ask each other “Have you got eaten yet?” or “Where are you going?” but they do not expect the answers. It is also a way of greeting in Vietnam. In addition, Vietnamese people rarely ask about others’ health if they meet each other almost everyday whereas it is very popular to ask “How are you?” in English- speaking countries. Many may greet by bowing slightly or they may joint hands. Usually, higher-ranking people are greeted first.   

Nowadays, shaking – hands is very popular in the working environment. Both men and women do this; however, in the formal meeting, men should give hands first and women are the second. Sometimes, Vietnamese women do first. Moreover, business cards are exchanged on greetings.

Using name

In common, Vietnamese’s full name is written in the order First name plus Middle name plus Last name (known as primary call sign or main name).

In Vietnamese tradition, children’s first names are followed father’s first names. The number of first names in Vietnam is very limited, about 140 different ones, popularly including Nguyen, Pham, Phan, Tran, Le, Vu/Vo, Truong, Huynh/Hoang,…Formerly, the most popular middle names were “thi” for women and “van” for men. Nowadays, Vietnamese people like using other more beautiful, reasonable middle names. It is no common rule for naming; however, it is very important with Vietnamese psychology because each name cements to each person. There are many ways to give a name basing on each person’s characteristics, genders, family status, origins as well as society or desires. Because Vietnamese names function not only the distinction between one person and others, but also the aesthetics, they are chosen carefully in terms of semantics and phonology. With Vietnamese people and other orient nations, names follow the first names.

One another thing in difference from Western custom, married Vietnamese women have still not changed their first names in any documents of birth, marriages and deaths, administration documents or letters.

In regard of calling, because with western people, a few have the same first names, but a lot have the same last names, they use first names to distinguish. On the contrary, the number of Vietnamese people that have the same first names is large, so Vietnamese people often use names in formal form “First name plus Middle name plus Last name” to distinguish between one person and others and to call.

Tranditional Clothes

AO DAI

. In its current form, it is a tight-fitting silk dress worn over pantaloons. Áo dài is pronounced "ow yai" in the South, and "ow zai" in the North. In modern Vietnamese, áo refers to an item of clothing that covers from the neck down. Dài means "long."

The ao dai is now standard for weddings, for celebrating Tết and for other formal occasions. A plain white ao dai is a common high school school uniform in the South. Companies often require their female staff to wear uniforms that include the ao dai, so flight attendants, receptionists, restaurant staff, and hotel workers in Vietnam may be seen wearing it.

The most popular style of ao dai fits tightly around the wearer's upper torso, emphasizing her bust and curves. Although the dress covers the entire body, it is thought to be provocative, especially when it is made of thin fabric. The dress must be individually fitted and usually requires several weeks for a tailor to complete. The shop of designer Le Si Hoang in Hochiminh City is the place to visit for those who admire the dress. In Hanoi, tourists get fitted for ao dai on Luong Van Can Street. The elegant city of Huế in the central region is known for its ao dai, nón lá (leaf hats), and well-dressed women.



The Áo tứ thân or “4-part dress” can be considered one of the oldest enduring Vietnamese cultural relics, having been worn widely by women from as early as the 12th century on to the early 20th century. As Vietnam expanded southward and slightly different cultures began to emerge between the regions, the Áo tứ thân gradually became associated specifically with northern women.

Áo tứ thân was the dress of common women, which explains why it was often made with plain fabric in dark colors, except when it was to be worn at special occasions such as festivals or weddings. While most modern Áo tứ thân are extremely colorful, ancient Vietnamese preferred more muted colors.

Regardless of its many different forms, the basic Áo tứ thân consists of:

* A flowing outer tunic, reaching almost to the floor. It is open at the front, like a jacket. At the waist the tunic splits into two flaps: a full flap in the back (made up of two flaps sewn together) and the two flaps in the front which are not sewn together but can be tied together or left dangling
* A long skirt, worn under the tunic
* Yếm, an ancient bodice worn as an undergarment by women. It comes in many fabrics and colors, worn under the skirt and outer tunic
* A silk sash which is tied at the waist as a belt

The dress as it is most typically worn today (almost exclusively in northern-related festivals) tends to be extremely colorful, using different hues throughout the dress, from the tunic to the bodice and the skirt.

The dress is now obsolete in terms of its daily use in Vietnam, but it can be seen often in traditional occasions such as festivals, especially in northern Vietnam.

AO BA BA

Áo bà ba or Vietnamese silk pajamas is a traditional Vietnamese costume. It is most associated with southern Vietnam, especially in rural areas. The áo bà ba simply consists of a pair of silk pants and a long-sleeved, button-down silk shirt. The shirt will be somewhat long and split at the sides of the waist, forming two flaps. In the front of the shirt at the very bottom are typically two pockets.

The garment's simplicity and versatility has contributed to its popularity, whether in rural or urban areas. It can be worn while laboring or lounging.
Modern versions allow countless different designs, colors and embroidery, which have allowed the costume's transition into modern Vietnamese fashion as well.

Proper Gifts

It is traditional in Vietnam to give gifts when celebrating new houses, one-month birth, birthdays, longevity, Tet holidays, weddings, anniversaries,…Those who are living far from their families often buy specialties for their relations; in spite of simple gifts, it expresses their love and feelings.

On Tet holidays, married first-born children often give their parents chicken, jams, or one kilogram of dried bamboo shoot to contribute to Tet. Adults often give children new cloths and lucky money. With friends of the same age or older colleagues, you can choose a lovely narcissus flowerpot, Dao trees to give. Those who are given gifts, often thank the offers with other Tet gifts. On Tet holidays, Vietnamese people do not like giving cats, cuttlefish, knife, scissors because these often symbolize bad omens.
In addition, Vietnamese people also often give gist on holidays or anniversaries. The receivers are often respect any kinds of gift and not open the gifts in the presence of offers.

The last important thing, when giving gifts, the value of gifts is not as important as when you think of receivers and want to do good things for them, because Vietnamese has a statement “Gifts are not as important as arts of giving gifts”

Communication

Vietnamese’s culture in communication reflects Vietnamese’s characteristics and humankind. Vietnamese are very hospitable and eager to open the relationships. Vietnamese always try to warmly welcome and kindly treat visitors regardless of unfamiliar or familiar ones.

However, in culture of communication, Vietnamese are so very timid that foreigners always mention. In term of communication relationship, because of origins from agricultural culture and the appreciation of affection, Vietnamese base affections – hate and love - to conduct their communication principles.

Vietnamese like to learn, observe, evaluate the communication objects and want to know about their age, homeland, education level, social status, family status (dead or alive parents, married or unmarried, male or female children,…). This is so very different from foreigner’s habits that makes them think Vietnamese are very curious. Due to community feature, Vietnamese are aware of responsibility for taking care of everyone, the first factor that is necessary to know is their status. On the other hand, because of detail distinction between social relationships and distinction in calling names, it is impossible to choose a suitable word to call in case of lack of information.

Community feature also create the appreciation of honor for Vietnamese. Because they focus much on honor, Vietnamese always show their face.

In regard of communication methods, Vietnamese like delicateness, considerateness and harmony. The mark of delicate communication enable Vietnamese to equivocate in communication, not directly mention the interests like foreigners. The delicate and considerate mark of communication are the products of the appreciation of affection and appreciation of relationship. This creates a habit of thoughtful talking, the main factor that enables Vietnamese indecisive. Another thing, in order to avoid determination and to harmonize with others, Vietnamese often smile. Smile is one the most important factors in Vietnamese habit of communication, we can see Vietnamese smile every time and everywhere.

Table Manners

Vietnamese people are used to eat with chopsticks. In the meal, they do not let chopsticks touch their mouth but the food.

If the meal is particularly formal, you are unlikely to be allowed to serve yourself. Your host will make sure you have ample food. In addition, compliment the cook on each disk after having tasted it is appreciated.

In the meal, the meat is the most important ingredient in any meal. Moreover, if you offer or pass something, it is polite to use both hands. Finally, the guest of honor will be expected to leave the dining table first at the conclusion of the meal.

Proper conversations

First, in the business setting, communication is less direct and often left open for additional discussion. A high level of directness is considered rude and unintelligent.  In addition, conversations should be left unfinished, which gives the appearance of flexibility.

Second, non-verbal queues are widely used as part of the communication process.  Posture, hand gestures, and especially facial expressions are essential for effective communication.

Finally yet importantly, observation of silence is a sign of respect and contemplation.  Although confused with uncertainty, silence is a way to show that you are processing and understanding information.

Discussing business

Business meetings with the Vietnamese are relaxed, lengthy affairs. Be sure to schedule ample time. First, appointments are required and should be made several weeks in advance, and having your business literature translated into Vietnamese will be appreciated. Second, business cards are exchanged on initial meetings and should be presented with both hands. When receiving business cards ensure you show proper respect to it and do not simply glance at it and put it on the table. In addition, the most senior member of the Vietnamese team will enter the room last and sit at the head of the table. However, do not be surprised if this person does not run the meeting himself and has appointed a junior member to lead the discussion.

When you meet with senior officials, after initial pleasantries, begin discussing business within a few minutes, for there may be few opportunities to meet with the senior person and their time is at a premium.  With middle and junior level officials, you should concentrate on relationship building. Moreover, in the meeting, silence is also common in meetings where someone disagrees with another but remains quiet not to cause a loss of face. The spoken word is very important.

Remember that: Never make promises that you cannot keep, as this will lead to a loss of face. Furthermore, negotiations can be slow so it is important to bear in mind that decisions have to go through a lot of red tape and group consultation. Be patient.

Finally, business gift giving is common at the end of a meeting or during a meal in honor of your business associates. Gifts should be small. Also, prepare to be invited to a meal following your meeting.

Drinking

Eating and drinking are a major part of doing business in Vietnam. Dinners with local agents and customers help to develop networks and give the local agent ‘face’.

In Vietnam, it is not only the quality of wine or the method of distilling, but also in the way, liquor is offered and shared. When they drink, they toast to good health, prosperity and happiness.

A distinctive practice in Vietnam is an almost obsessive attitude towards toasting at informal social gatherings, formal dinners and weddings. A member of the group pours around and everyone waits until all glasses have been charged. In particular, beer and wine are popular drink in many tables. In addition, tea and coffee is used frequently after meals or in the business conversations.

Toasting

Toasting at banquets and after-dinner activities such as singing is immensely popular in Vietnam, and if someone proposes one, it's poor form to refuse.

When cognac or whisky is served at a meal, the custom is for individuals to drink only after a toast is made. The glass should be held in the right hand supported by the left.

Returning a toast is standard practice. Common toasts are ‘Tram phan tram’ (equals to empty your glass - 100 per cent) and ‘Chuc Suc Khoe’ (equals to good health).

Where to entertain

Setting appointments

In Vietnam, businesspersons like to setting appointments through email or phone firstly. Phoning is more popular. Then, they tend to have a face – to – face meeting to plan the schedule and activities for the important or formal meeting. To Vietnamese people, to know their partners or counterparts’ information directly is very important. Therefore, entrepreneurs often meet each other and exchange their name cards as well as information in the company or in the formal restaurants to show their mutual confidence. Moreover, they think that it will be easier to make transaction if they meet face – to – face.

Exchanging business cards

The exchange of business cards is important. Firstly, if you meet your partner for the first time, you should ask them friendly and give your company’s name. Then, give the partner your business card. Remember that business cards should be put in the shirt’s pocket or in the briefcase. Secondly, if you have a business card that is in English and Vietnamese, it is good etiquette to present the card with the Vietnamese side facing up and make it easy for them to read. In addition, you had better smile.

Moreover, people with subordinate posts should give business cards to those with higher posts; men should give first. In case of many people, you must present cards to the most important people and the eldest.

When receiving cards, use both hands and carry a large supply even for short visits. At the same time, you should say, “Thank you” or “I’m very pleased to receive your name cards”…

One more important, you should scan it and ask for more information if it is unclear.

Gifts in business

Gift giving and congratulations on employees, customers and partners play an important role in modern business operations because it is necessary to prepare well and have a good knowledge of it.

To customers and employees, gifts are often symbolic things and meaningful of encouraging such as souvenir, books, CD or picture frame…It helps to tighten their faithfulness to the company.

However, it is more difficult to choose presents for partners, VIP or managers as well as directors, because it depends on your relationship with them and their social positions. First, you should ask the human resources department about the company’s policy of gifts giving. Second, you had better not to present in public. It is advisable that you should ask for their relatives as well as friends’ information of their interests. Moreover, the most important thing is that gifts are suitable and valuable to receivers such as gifts related to entertainment, resting and relaxing activities, member card or office stationery, decorative items if you are not sure of their interests. 

In addition, when giving presents, you should give them directly and show your respect and goodwill.

Finally, it is customary to send gifts and cards to all of your business associates and contacts just before Vietnamese Lunar New Year or ‘Tet’, in traditional holidays, or in special occasions such as birthday, promotion…

Business presentations

Presentation is rather important in the business as it helps members of the meeting understand each other   as well as they have opportunities to express their opinions.

Before business presentation or a meeting, you should send a company letter that presents bio data with accomplishments (academic titles, positions held, major deals or projects completed) of the visiting team members.

At an introductory meeting, your Vietnamese counterpart may read a list of his/her company's accomplishments. Pay attention, jotting notes while listening. For first meetings, arrive with your own list of company data such as mission statement, number of company offices, employees, years in business, annual growth, to read after your host.

One more thing is that most foreigners will also need to use translators. If there is any question about the comprehension of English, always use your own translator or interpreter.  Do not rely on the other organizations translator or interpreter.  They work for the other side and are more likely to protect their business interest and to focus on their interests. Also, meet with your interpreter prior to the meeting and make sure they understand you and your company.

In addition, in the presentation, try to speak more slowly and distinctly but not so slow or distinct as to offend. It is advisable that you should speak clearly and have explanation if necessary.

Finally, at the end of the presentation, ask members several questions and answer to them friendly. Moreover, presenters should ask for comments from other members about the content as well as the performance of the presentation to contribute for next time.

Proper follow – up

In business meeting, the Vietnamese often use indirect persuasion. They use proverbs, parables or anecdotes (which may seem irrelevant) to describe context or perspective. Listen to the proverb, respond to portions of it you understand, and continue the discussion with a bridge such as, "Vietnamese language and culture are so rich. In my country / company, we understand the situation like this...." Doing creates opportunity for making room for discussing about your culture and theirs.

When giving feedback, you should notice the following things:

+ Negative feedback - Vietnamese do not want to convey bad news or cause loss of face, so it is challenging to get explicit negative feedback. Look for phrases or gestures that indicate non-acceptance.

+ Positive feedback - This is well received if done in a low-key, private manner. Never single out a Vietnamese for praise in front of others.

A general business call lasts no more than half an hour. Usually, the visitor is expected to initiate or signal the closure of the meeting.

When giving feedback, you should notice the following things: