Passage 1 A handshake will be an acceptable greeting around the world. However, the strength, length, and duration of a handshake will vary by culture. Of course, Japanese will still bow to each other and it is advisable for foreign visitors to bow slightly when shaking hands. Mexicans who know each other will hug and East Europeans may kiss. In many European countries it is common to shake hands with everyone in the room before and after each business meeting. Business card exchanges are an important part of any international business meeting. Variations include where to keep your cards, which languages the card should be in, and what to do with the business card once you have received it. One rule to follow: Always bring five times more cards than you think you will need. To explore the nuances of business card exchange, we will examine the exchange as carried out by an American in Japan. First, the cards should be in English on one side and Japanese on the other. The Japanese side should have a logo or other marker. It is important that the company and title be prominently positioned. The cards should be kept in a card holder in the vest or jacket. Never keep the cards in a wallet or a pocketbook. The presentation of the card is done at the beginning of the meeting. Cards are presented with the giver's name (Japanese side) facing the recipient. The card can be delivered by one or preferably two hands accompanied by a slight bow. On receipt of a card, it should be studied carefully to determine the status of the person. Since meetings usually involve more than one person, each card received should be placed on the table, like an open deck of cards, in front of the recipient so that the executive can tell who he or she is speaking with. The recipient should avoid shuffling the cards, placing them in one's wallet, or writing on them in the presence of the giver. The business card is the symbolic embodiment of the organization; therefore it should be treated with the utmost respect. As a general rule, use people's titles on international business assignments. Learn the appropriate titles for each country. People with Ph.D.s should always be referred to as 'Doctor'. In many countries, people will be referred to by their titles only. For example, "Chief Engineer, can you tell us how this operation works?" The use of first names in business also varies by country and age. Be alert to these differences. 3. It is acceptable for an American to note something down on a Japanese business card to remind him of the person who gave it to him.