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Business Culture in Indonesia

Find out about business culture, protocol, customs and business etiquette in Indonesia. Learn about doing successful business in Indonesia, marketing, corporate structure, negotiating, establishing connections and finding your partner. Receive latest information on Indonesia business organization, manners, building relationship, correspondence and traditions. Get practical tips on meeting protocol, business entertainment, communication, social customs and much more.

Business Meetings and Negotiations in Indonesia

For your first meeting, shake hands lightly with all men and women present (handshakes should not be firm). If your counterpart touches his heart during the shake, he or she is signifying a very hearty greeting. Salamat (peace) is the most common greeting. Handshakes are not common once two people know each other. A slight bow is then substituted. Do not sit until your counterpart invites you to do so. It is important to pronounce your host's name correctly. For practice, repeat his or her name out loud when first introduced. Do not hesitate to write the correct pronunciation down on your counterpart's business card. ... » » » MORE

Most Indonesian executives are uncomfortable talking business with people they do not know -- especially foreigners who are trying to sell them something. Trade shows and official trade missions are good ways to meet prospective customers and partners. Another way is to have someone introduce you, preferably a person or organization who knows both you and the Indonesian party you wish to contact. You can also ask your bank or a trading company, law firm, consulting firm or embassy official to introduce you. ... » » » MORE

Business Culture in Indonesia

To better understand Western and Indonesian business cultures, it is useful to compare the two cultures graphically. Anthropologists have for years used cultural models to help define cultures. A basic model plots a culture by asking several questions. These questions address issues like the culture's view of the relationship of man to nature, the concept of time, and the purpose of human activity. In some of these areas, Western and Indonesian cultures are quite far apart. For instance, many Indonesians believe that life is determined by external forces; a person can not surpass the conditions that life has set. Most Western cultures believe that man's challenge is to conquer and control nature. A Westerner may believe that a good grain harvest is the result of climatic conditions, fertilizer and pesticides. A Javanese farmer may just as surely believe that the harvest is a result of following the proper rites and ceremonies to maintain harmony with nature. ... » » » MORE

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