Gift-Giving EC

Japan
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An important part in business. Exchange gifts at first meeting. Avoid white and brightly colored wrapping paper. When offering gifts to a group of Japanese, either a group gift or a gift to each individual. When offering gifts, downplay the importance of the gift. The Japanese will politely refuse a gift once or twice before accepting it. When a gift is offered to you, follow the same ceremony. Politely refuse once or twice, and then accept it with both hands, saving it to open later.
Dead people
Break-up
America
Small gifts such as pens, business diaries, and mementos with company logos are sufficient.
Gifts are normally opened when ed.
When do people give gifts?
• • • • • • • • • • Birthday Spring Festival New Year’s Day Christmas Day Anniversary Valentine's Day Wedding ceremony Housewarming Graduation day Visiting
Gift-giving
Some words and phrases
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gift present gifted sb. has a gift for sth. Mary is gifted and she has a gift for music. gift-wrap Could you gift-wrap the flowers for me, please?
A few sayings
• as a token of sth. • as a token of appreciation/love/friendship • Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why it is called the “present”. • One good turn deserves another. • It’s better to give than receive. • It’s the thought that counts.
Gift-giving Etiquette
China
Generally, the receiver may graciously refuse the present when first offered. If the receiver does not open your gift, it does not mean that he/she is not interested in it. Do not brag about your gift in front of the receiver. Avoid giving gifts in odd numbers.
Canada
• Gifts from your home country are the best choices • A quality gift, but not obviously expensive • For business associates: practical items for the office, a bottle of wine • Home-visiting: flowers, candy, wine or liquor
Some words and phrases
• gift coupon • a Greek gift • He is always buying you expensive clothes, I’m afraid they are Greek gifts for you. • an Indian gift • I don’t like to hold back Lily’s gift because I will have to return it sooner or later. It’s an Indian gift.
Avoid sharp objects such as knives, letter openers, or scissor.
Gift-giving Taboo
Clock Umbrella
Death Separation
Shoes Green hat
Chrysanthemum Flute
Evil Cheating on husband
When visiting the home, it’s normally appropriate to present a gift to the hostess.
• When giving gifts to a business acquaintance, do not give anything of a personal nature. • No cosmetic. • A scarf is OK, but other types of clothing are not.
Questions
1. Describe the best/worst gift you have received: i. Who send it? What is the gift? What is it for? ii. When did you receive it? iii. Detailed information about the gift. 2. Is it Ok to give the gifts that you’ve got to someone else? 3. Is it necessary to give those who help you out gifts? 4. Do you agree teachers who take gifts from their students’ parents? Why or why not?
Why do people give gifts?
• • • • • To show gratitude/respect/generosity To express affection/friendship/apology To motivate or encourage someone To promote products or service To build or maintain business/personal relationships • To enhance reputation of a company/country
Choice of gifts
• The thoughts to the receivers but not the price of gifts; • Practical items; • Flowers, fruit, chocolate, candy and wine; • Books, pens; • Specialty from hometown;