Starting a new job and unsure about the professional protocol?

Still adjusting to the working world? Do you want to understand the best ways to work with colleagues and advance your career? 

GoinGlobal’s ‘Office Conduct’ sections can help you navigate business culture, so you increase your chances of success. Learn about communication, dress codes, socializing, and workplace hierarchy in countries and cities around the world.

Each of our guides offer a ‘Cultural Advice’ section, where you can further explore ‘Office Conduct.’

Here is an excerpt from GoinGlobal’s India Country Guide:

India: General Workplace Conduct

In addition to seven Union Territories administered by the Central Government, India is made up of 28 states and eight union territories. Each of these states is demarcated on a linguistic basis. Given the country’s size, diversity and variety, it should come as no surprise that business protocol varies from region to region and organization to organization. For this reason, it is difficult to generalize about such things as proper business protocol and management styles.

In general, Indians are a very friendly and open people. The business culture is, to a certain extent, relaxed. In recent years, however, some industries, such as call centers or information technology corporations, have adopted more professional environments resembling the formal corporate ambiance of the West.
Respecting hierarchy and being polite are considered important in Indian business context. Building interpersonal relationships and rapport will aid in successful business ventures.

Indians have a great intrinsic respect for age and seniority, as well as loyalty to family and community. These notions are present in business and social circles and must be considered in any business relationship.

Attire

• Normal business dress for men is a suit and tie. Because of India’s very warm climate, however, a long-sleeved shirt and tie — without a jacket — often is acceptable.
• Women may wear either Western business clothes or traditional Indian attire, whichever is more comfortable.
• Choose neutral, subdued colors over bright hues.
• In most companies — particularly those in the IT sector — the dress code is much more casual. It is not unusual to find people wearing T-shirts and jeans with sneakers.
• While more conservative clothing is advised, it is best to observe the work environment and dress accordingly.

Dining

Having lunch together is a great way to get to know colleagues. In most organizations, the lunch hour is a source of camaraderie. You are likely to come across people clustered into groups, chatting and sharing their lunch boxes. Most multinational companies have cafeterias that offer vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare at subsidized rates.

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