Effective Cross-Cultural Communication: Thai Negotiation Report

This report provides a comprehensive overview of Thai culture and its significance in business negotiations. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting Thai customs, including the significance of Theravada Buddhism, the use of the "wai" greeting, and the avoidance of touching heads or pointing feet. The report highlights key considerations for successful negotiations, such as showing respect for the royal family, using the Thai language, and building trust through multiple visits and establishing a line of credit. It also covers specific etiquette, such as not touching heads, not showing feet, and the importance of a united front from the negotiation team. The report stresses the need for patience and a long-term perspective, as decisions are often made slowly and require building strong relationships. By adhering to these cultural guidelines, the report suggests that the negotiation with the Thai firm can be more successful and lead to a beneficial outcome.

Running head: CULTURE IN THAILAND
Culture in Thailand
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

1CULTURE IN THAILAND
Humans residing in modern Thailand for more than 40,000 years now have evolved
over the years as a stable economy and democracy in Southeast India. The Thai culture
differs from other cultures. The primary religion of Thailand is Theravada Buddhism and is
the strongest feature of the Thai culture. Animism and Hinduism inspires the Thai culture
(Taylor, 2016). For negotiating with a Thai firm, it is important to respect their beliefs and
faiths.
The official language of Thailand is Thai, which is practiced, in schools, colleges and
at homes throughout the country (Liamputtong, 2014). Good communication and the
knowledge of Thai language will make the negotiation easier.
Thai religion greets one another with reverence and respect. They traditionally use the
word “wai” to greet people. They bow their head and press their hands together to show the
respect (Liamputtong, 2014). A practice considered wrong by the Thai people is touching
anyone’s head.
Thai people believe in physical contact, which implies that strong friendships allow
touching each other of the same or different sex (Taylor, 2016). Negotiation will be easier if
the royal family is given the respect. Stringent laws will be enforced on disrespecting the
monarchy (Arghiros, 2016).

2CULTURE IN THAILAND
References
Arghiros, D. (2016). Democracy, development and decentralization in provincial Thailand.
Routledge.
Liamputtong, P. (Ed.). (2014). Contemporary socio-cultural and political perspectives in
Thailand. New York: Springer.
Taylor, J. (2016). Buddhism and postmodern imaginings in Thailand: The religiosity of urban
space. Routledge.