2012 February | Global Career Blog

Protocol for Business Cards in the Middle East

By Lucia Kolaja Bordean, Program Specialist, Passport Career Business cards are universal but there are regional differences in both the content details and very importantly, in the etiquette of their usage. Learning the business culture in a new host country is critical to making a strong first impression as well as demonstrating professional behavior to business partners, whether they are locals or expatriates (expats). Business cards are an essential business tool in the Middle East and are exchanged freely and frequently, so it is advised to have business cards with you at all times. Business cards are generally exchanged at the end of a meeting, or, if at a conference or event, during networking times or coffee breaks. It is considered polite to have one side of your card translated into the local language (usually Arabic), and to present the Arabic-written side of the card face-up when passing it on to a colleague or client. However, do not assume that all Middle Easterners are Arabs. Middle East is home to many different ethnicities. What to include on your business card A traditional business card in the Middle East includes your company’s name, logo, address and website (if you are employed), your full name, professional title/qualifications, position, phone number (office and mobile), fax number and e-mail address. Protocol varies by country The United Arab Emirates is a country whose people respect traditional Islamic roles and values while operating within an increasingly cosmopolitan, international culture. Due to the international business environment in Dubai, etiquette with regard to business cards is rather relaxed. Although business cards in the UAE are typically exchanged at the beginning of a meeting, it is also acceptable to hand them out during a night out or during a supermarket chat with a neighbor or compatriot. In Bahrain, business cards are given to everyone you meet in a business setting or when meeting people at any networking or social function. When you receive business cards, make a point of looking at them carefully and respectfully before putting them away. Never give or receive cards with your left hand, which was traditionally reserved for “unclean” acts. In Israel, business cards are exchanged without much fanfare, often at the beginning of a meeting, though there are no hard and fast rules. Most companies provide business cards for their employees, who are most likely to find themselves in work-related situations where such exchanges are made. People who are self-employed frequently have their own business cards, as well as their own website. It is perfectly acceptable for business cards to be printed exclusively in English as not everyone can read Hebrew. Some organizations and individuals opt for cards that are printed with Hebrew on one side and English on the other; businesses that work locally and conduct business solely in Hebrew have their cards printed in Hebrew, as the chance that they will require an English card is minimal. Where to print business cards It is very easy to have business cards printed in most of the Middle Eastern metropolitan areas. It might be preferable to have them printed locally to ensure correct local language content, customary layout and most current contact information (phone numbers and addresses). WANT TO KNOW MORE? Passport Career provides more detailed career information and extensive resources about finding a job, internship, or alternative career opportunity in a number of countries. If your organization, embassy, university/college, library, or other institution would like access to our country portfolios (12,000+ pages of expert content for 75+ countries) to share with your students, employees, spouses/partners, and others managing a national or international career transition, please click here to contact us regarding a free, online demo and details on how to subscribe. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRANSITION!
5 Tips to Move Your Career to Canada

By Lucia Kolaja Bordean, Program Specialist, Passport Career Boasting the highest per capita immigration rate in the world, more than 250,000 newcomers every year designate Canada as their new home, with thousands more arriving for short-term stays as expatriates (expats). The country has been shaped by successive waves of immigration, including those from Western Europe and more recently from Asia and India. The result is a multicultural country with over 30 ethnic groups. Canada has developed economically and technologically in parallel to the United States, but historically has been influenced by European culture and traditions, especially the British and French. This is most likely why English and French are recognized by the Constitution of Canada as "official languages," which means that many services, including those offered by the federal government, are available in both languages. Needless to say, speaking, writing and reading English, French, or both is a must and the federal government runs a free program for eligible newcomers. In addition to honing your English/French skills, consider the following when seeking a job in Canada: 1. Consider temporary or contract employment. It is notoriously difficult to find a position before you actually arrive in Canada, unless you have very specific qualifications that are in high demand in Canada. Try to plan a short trip during which you will meet prospective employers before you actually move to Canada. If you are already in the country, overcome your lack of Canadian experience by finding a temporary position through a staffing agency. Their services are usually free in Canada and they are less particular than traditional employers, so long as you have a valid work permit. You may find it challenging to secure a position within an organization, but they may be interested in hiring you as a consultant or contractor. This can be common among the multinationals, the nonprofits, and the multilaterals. 2. Prepare your legal documents. People who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada and who wish to work temporarily in Canada should follow the appropriate application process. A work permit is issued if the application is accepted. A temporary resident visa may also be required, depending on the country you come from. The Going to Canada website helps you to prepare for the challenges of finding a permanent or temporary job. For comprehensive and the most up-to-date information on requirements and support available for newcomers living and working in Canada, check the Services to Newcomers government webpage. As a part of the job search preparation phase, have your foreign credentials recognized in Canada as soon as you can. Contact the Foreign Credentials Referral Office or your local credential assessment agency. Don’t hesitate to contact your local community center or employment services agencies (e.g. Toronto Employment and Social Services).Most newcomers with a valid work permit or permanent residents are eligible and you will have access to career planning, education, training and help for job seekers. 3. Ensure you have the appropriate recognized credentials. If you want to work in a job that requires a license (a regulated occupation), contact a regulatory body that regulates the occupation. In many provinces regulated occupations’ organizations are well known to be strict. The names and contact information for regulatory bodies can be found in the Working in Canada Tool. The information from this site can also serve as a networking resource. 4. Consider job options that work for other expats in Canada Many expats work with the numerous multinational organizations, in the educational sector, or developing private businesses. Native language services can provide a good part-time or even full-time job for expats. Editing or consulting jobs on various projects can also prove a potential way to “get your foot” into a more stable position. You need to be resourceful, open to meeting new people, and willing to network at any given opportunity to be successful. 5. Network, network, network! Most expats find jobs by networking. Many people do not advertise jobs in traditional ways as sometimes offices are overwhelmed by applicants. In addition, having a personal working relationship with an individual is favored highly over a “walk-in applicant.” That is not to say traditional methods are nonexistent as many jobs are still posted on websites, newspapers and other places. Connect with cultural associations that speak your language and can identify your needs. Many international communities are represented various cities (check out the Relocate Canada web site). Canadian Careers is a list of professional associations and organization organized by sector -a good resource to help you learn more about various industries and occupations and make new contacts. WANT TO KNOW MORE? Passport Career provides more detailed career information and extensive resources about finding a job, internship, or alternative career opportunity in the UK and other countries. If your organization, embassy, university/college, library, or other institution would like access to our country portfolios (12,000+ pages of expert content for 75+ countries) to share with your students, employees, spouses/partners, and others managing a national or international career transition, please click here to contact us regarding a free, online demo and details on how to subscribe. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRANSITION TO CANADA!
Business Cards in Latin America

By Lucia Kolaja Bordean, Program Specialist, Passport Career Business cards are used all over the world and there are basic expectations as to what information should be on a business card. Nevertheless, there are regional differences in both the content details and very importantly, in the etiquette of their usage. Business cards in Latin America are the primary way that professionals present their contact information to each other and potential clients. In the past, they were limited to professionals and high-powered individuals, but now many people have them to share their names and contact information. The general format for business cards in Latin America includes complete name, professional title/specialty, phone and fax numbers, address, and e-mails of the person identified. Additionally, company website address, logos and company affiliations are a standard. Your business card should detail your professional and academic qualifications and titles that your education and professional training permit. In addition to the “Dr.” or “Dra.” prefix, “Arq.” and “Ing.” are frequently seen for architects and engineers, respectively. While a card in English is acceptable in international circles, a two-sided card with Spanish or Portuguese on one side could be an asset. Most professional people have business cards provided by their employers. Business cards in Latin America (tarjetas de presentación or “introduction cards”) are important but their exchange does not involve any strict protocol, ritual, rules or taboos. Carry business cards with you at all times, to both formal networking and social events. Following are examples of how the business card is used in different Latin American countries: BRAZIL Business cards are usually exchanged during introductions. COLOMBIA Business cards can be exchanged at the beginning, during the middle or at the end of an interaction. In Colombia, if you do not have business cards, or do not have them with you, Colombians will happily accept a note card or piece of paper with a phone number or email address. People are also getting accustomed to just putting new contacts’ cell phone numbers right into their phone directories. MEXICO Business cards are usually exchanged at the end of a meeting, though sometimes they may be exchanged during introductions. Since the official language in Mexico is Spanish, and, while most Mexican businesspeople can speak English, it is advisable to have your business cards and company materials produced in Spanish. You might want to have a set printed in each language. In Mexico, include a cell phone number on the card and better avoid using your home address and telephone for security reasons. There are graphic design and printing companies in most of the Latin American metropolitan areas that print business cards. The quality of printing and of card stock may vary, so be sure to check around before getting cards made. Be sure to double-check spelling, especially if the card is in a foreign language. WANT TO KNOW MORE? Passport Career provides more detailed career information and extensive resources about finding a job, internship, or alternative career opportunity in a number of countries. If your organization, embassy, university/college, library, or other institution would like access to our country portfolios (12,000+ pages of expert content for 75+ countries) to share with your students, employees, spouses/partners, and others managing a national or international career transition, please click here to contact us regarding a free, online demo and details on how to subscribe. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRANSITION!