Taboos around the world

If you are in global mobility, you probably are already well aware of the benefits of having a strong cultural knowledge of the places you are going to be working and living. There are many resources available for those that desire information on their host location. 

Here's an article to check out: 14 Common Mistakes Expats Make (and how to avoid them). You'll learn what not to do the next time you are in Mexico - don't ever ask how much a person earns. Or, if you are in Sweden having a beverage, don't drink until eye contact is made with everyone at the table before taking a sip! Or, in Taiwan, avoid pointing at the moon. The people of Taiwan believe in the goddess of the moon, Chang’e. This goddess is known to be powerful, but also very shy. So, when your hands are pointed to the moon, you’re pointing fingers directly at her, which she finds offensive.

For some additional fun, consider how some companies make their own multicultural blunders as they enter into markets and send out messages and advertisements. Try the Hall of Shame: More Multicultural Brand Blunders.  

Offending someone at some point is possible to avoid as long as you consider and understand the social, political and cultural environment in which you are in. Taboos may lead to some of the most serious of trespasses. According to this article, "The word taboo comes from "tabu"—Fijian—or "tapu"—Tongan—meaning forbidden or prohibited. The spectrum of prohibitions across the world’s cultures is broad and fascinating. Taboos range from naming at birth to mentioning the dead, from superstitions surrounding tribal rulers to the presenting of gifts, from hunting for food to eating it."

Good luck in navigating the cultures impacting your global mobility programs!