Working with the Thais

Overview

Our briefings are designed for employees working with the Thais.  We thoroughly review the Thai people and their business culture and provide practical information on their country.

Course Content

Introduction to Culture: What is “normal” behaviour? Why we behave in the way we do – an introduction to cultural awareness

“kao rap” Respect

This session will include a briefing and discussion on Thai culture, history and geography: This will include the monarchy, democracy and coups, Buddhism, religious tolerance, terrorism, social structure, status system, seniority structure, the family, pop culture, dress, women in society and professional careers, the role of work and the office. The importance of agents and governmental officials.  Fees and gifts.

The “farang” or foreigner in the office: how they see you

How are you seen in Thailand? What image do the Thais have of your culture?  How can you modify your behaviour to overcome any negative or stereotypical views? This session will include information on the allowances Thais make for farangs or foreigners and the benefits and disadvantages of these. How the farang is seen at work in the office. The nature of the Thai office, its politics, status system, inter-personal relations, communicating with and managing Thais at work and following up contacts.

Meeting People: Know How to Communicate with Thais Effectively

This session will include arranging times, places, turning up, greetings, socialising, gestures, posture, non-verbal communication etc the problem of the “wai",  taboos, male/female friends, ages, forms of address, gifts.  The importance of food, eating out, (invitations and paying), karaoke, alcohol, clubs, farewells, arranging Thai visits to the UK and receiving them.

Keep Smiling: Business Entertaining and Negotiating

How explicit or implicit will Thai communication be? How can you adapt your style to ensure you communicate successfully with Thais?  This session includes avoidance of confrontation, resolving conflicts of interest by indirect means, interpreting Thai behaviour in negotiations, recognising the “agreement” problem and what to do about it.

Strategies for Working Effectively Together: Practical and useful tips that will help cement relationships and get the best out of multi-cultural working.