Companies of all sizes are using video meetings at an ever-increasing rate. The benefits are well known. They’re convenient, no travel is required, and provide an instant real-time form of communication. Meetings with family, friends even colleagues are casual. There’s no need to” dress up” or being overly formal. This kind of relaxed, casual atmosphere may be welcomed here but not likely in Asia. When we conducting ourselves in video meetings with Asians, as we do here, we increase the chances of making costly mistakes. In addition, we don’t have the benefit of an in-person meeting. At least then we can try to make up for our mistakes. This is why being on our toes regarding the differences in business cultures is so important in video calls.

Making cross-cultural/communication errors during video calls is easy.
We are, after all, sitting comfortably in our own home offices or desks. There’s the tendency to forget this and as a result, treat video meetings similar to those done here. This can and does lead to trouble.

Keep in mind that Asian business has always been based on good relationships. As a general rule, businesses there are seeking long-term profitable relations. They want and prefer doing business with companies they get to know and like. Especially, companies that recognize and show respect for their cultural differences and ways of doing business.

This applies to video meetings just as much, and possibly more than when face-to-face. The following suggestions are proven to be effective. I know they will be valued and appreciated by your Asian client.

⦁ Prepare and present yourself as you would for an in-person, face-to-face meeting.

⦁ Position yourself on the screen at eye level with the other person. Avoid having your eyes above and looking down or lower with you looking up at your counterpart.

⦁ Avoid looking directly into their eyes. It can be considered as staring thereby rude and intimidating. I found that focusing my gaze in the general direction of their left ear was best.

⦁ Remove any background noises or distractions. When working at home, try keeping the kids quiet and dogs barking. At the office, don’t show people walking past your open door. Close it. Tapping pencils or pens on the desk or fidgeting with your fingers can also be distracting.

⦁ When using an interpreter speak to your counterpart and not the interpreter. Keep your attention on him or her.

⦁ Use short sentences of 10 -12 words with a slight pause between sentences. This makes it easier for them to understand you. Always speak in a way that portrays the other in a respectful light.

⦁ Speak in a manner that shows respect and not as a superior.

⦁ If thirsty, take a drink. But say excuse me first, then take the drink.

⦁ Try to relax as best you can. This helps to relax them as well.

These simple tips will help you make your next Zoom meetings with Asian that much better.