It’s easy for business travellers to think that even when they travel, business is going to be done pretty much the same way it is at home. But that’s not always the case. Cultural differences can have a big impact on global business etiquette. That’s why it’s important for business travellers to make sure that they understand the culture of the country that they’re doing business in.
This article on cultural differences in Canada and cultural travel tips for Canada is a brief snapshot of conversation guidelines for Canada, tips for communicating in Canada and business strategies for Canada to help with understanding the culture in Canada. It’s important to keep in mind that as we homogenize as a ‘global culture’, cultural tendencies change and evolve as well. Awareness is the first step when it comes to cultural dos and taboos for Canada and tips for intercultural communication!
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Tips
If you need to point, it’s okay to use the index finger. However, pointing at people is generally considered rude.
Sports are an excellent topic to talk about with Canadians. Popular sports include hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, golf, and tennis.
Canadians typically enjoy discussing travel of all sorts, especially international travel.
Canada has excellent shopping in the larger cities, both on the east and west coasts, so this is always a fun topic for discussion.
Talking about music, art, and culture of all types is common in Canada, and the coasts of Canada have remained true to the European appreciation of the Arts.
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Taboos
Making comparisons that emphasize any inferiority or similarity to the U.S.
Quebec separatism or other possible conflicts between French and English Canada.
Comparisons between the Canadian and US Health Care Systems or medical insurance.
Any inferiority of the Canadian dollar in comparison to the US dollar.
