The Ultimate Guide to Collaborating with Myanmar Colleagues: 50 Do's and Don'ts

Myanmar's business environment, emerging into the global market, marries traditional values with the aspirations of modernization. This guide aims to shine a light on fostering successful and respectful collaborations in the unique cultural and professional setting of Myanmar.

Do's: Embracing Tradition and Respect

1. Show Respect for Hierarchy: Respect for elders and those in higher positions is deeply ingrained. Acknowledge hierarchies in all professional interactions.

2. Practice Patience: Business processes can be slow. Approach interactions with patience and understanding.

3. Use Proper Titles: Address people with their honorifics and surnames until a closer relationship allows for first names.

4. Value Face-to-Face Meetings: Personal relationships are key. Whenever possible, opt for in-person meetings to build rapport.

5. Be Mindful of Religious Practices: Buddhism plays a central role in many lives. Respect religious customs and holidays.

6. Dress Conservatively: Modest attire is preferred in professional settings, reflecting respect and good manners.

7. Engage in Small Talk: Conversations about family and well-being are common and help in building connections.

8. Offer and Accept with Both Hands: This is seen as a sign of respect, especially when giving or receiving business cards or gifts.

9. Understand the Importance of Non-Verbal Communication: Pay attention to body language and non-verbal cues, which can convey much in Myanmar culture.

10. Respect Local Traditions: Show interest and respect for Myanmar's rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals and practices.

11. Navigate Negotiations Gently: Direct confrontation is avoided. Approach negotiations with respect and look for mutual benefits.

12. Show Appreciation for Myanmar Cuisine: Being open to local dishes and expressing appreciation can be a bonding experience.

13. Exercise Discretion in Public: Public displays of anger or frustration are frowned upon. Maintain composure and discuss issues privately.

14. Use Formal Language in Communications: Start with formal language in emails and correspondence, maintaining a level of professionalism.

15. Be Conservative with Physical Contact: Myanmar culture generally considers direct physical contact, especially between opposite genders, as inappropriate in professional settings.

16. Acknowledge Myanmar's Diversity: Myanmar is home to diverse ethnic groups and languages. Show respect for this diversity.

17. Present Gifts Thoughtfully: If giving a gift, ensure it is not too lavish and is given in a context that avoids embarrassment.

18. Understand Local Business Hours: Be aware of the typical business hours and days, including longer lunch breaks and observance of Buddhist holidays.

19. Maintain Humility: Demonstrating humility and respect in your interactions can go a long way in building lasting relationships.

20. Respect Silence: Silence is often used for contemplation and agreement. Don't rush to fill quiet moments in conversation.

21. Learn Basic Burmese Phrases: Basic greetings and thank-yous in Burmese can show respect and effort to engage with the culture.

22. Be Cautious with Humor: Humor can be a sensitive matter across different cultures. Ensure that humor is appropriate and cannot be misinterpreted.

23. Demonstrate Respect for National Symbols: Show respect for Myanmar's flag and national symbols, understanding their significance.

24. Participate in Traditional Ceremonies: If invited to a traditional ceremony or event, your participation shows respect and interest in the culture.

25. Adapt to Local Time Perceptions: The concept of time may be more flexible than in Western cultures. Plan schedules with flexibility in mind.

Don'ts: Navigating Cultural Sensitivities

1. Don't Disrespect Buddhist Traditions: Showing disrespect to Buddhist symbols, monks, or practices can deeply offend.

2. Avoid Touching Someone's Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid touching it, even in a friendly gesture.

3. Don't Point with Your Feet: The feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Don't point or show the soles of your feet towards people or religious objects.

4. Avoid Public Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection are not common and can make others uncomfortable.

5. Don't Rush Introductions: Take the time to greet and introduce yourself properly, respecting the formalities of initial meetings.

6. Avoid Using Left Hand for Eating or Giving: The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Use your right hand for eating and passing items.

7. Don't Discuss Politics Openly: Political discussions can be sensitive. Avoid bringing up political topics in professional settings.

8. Avoid Overlooking Religious Holidays: Be mindful of religious holidays and plan meetings and deadlines accordingly.

9. Don't Dismiss the Importance of Tea: Tea plays a significant role in social and business interactions. Participate in tea rituals when offered.

10. Avoid Loud and Boisterous Behavior: Respectful and moderate behavior is appreciated. Avoid being overly loud in professional settings.

11. Don't Criticize or Shame Publicly: Public criticism can cause someone to "lose face." Offer feedback privately and constructively.

12. Avoid Disregarding Environmental Concerns: Show respect for Myanmar's natural beauty and engage in sustainable practices.

13. Don't Ignore Local Etiquette: Failing to observe local customs and etiquette can hinder professional relationships.

14. Avoid Wearing Shoes Indoors: In many places, including offices and homes, removing shoes is a sign of respect.

15. Don't Dismiss Invitations Lightly: Refusing an invitation without a good reason can be seen as rude. If you must decline, do so politely.

16. Avoid Misunderstanding Silence: Silence can indicate agreement or contemplation. Don't misinterpret it as disinterest.

17. Don't Overlook Traditional Business Practices: While modern business practices are adopted, traditional approaches still hold value.

18. Avoid Inappropriate Jokes: Jokes that might be acceptable in your culture could be offensive in Myanmar. Err on the side of caution.

19. Don't Underestimate the Heat: Myanmar's climate can be hot. Dress appropriately but maintain a sense of professionalism.

20. Avoid Being Impatient with Service: Service in restaurants and shops may be slower than you're used to. Show patience and understanding.

21. Don't Neglect to Confirm Meetings: Always confirm meetings in advance to accommodate any changes or cultural observances.

22. Avoid Direct Confrontation: Direct confrontation is generally avoided in Myanmar culture. Seek harmonious resolutions.

23. Don't Forget to Reciprocate Hospitality: If you're the recipient of hospitality,

find an appropriate way to reciprocate.

24. Avoid Closed-Off Body Language: Open and welcoming body language can foster better communication and relationship building.

25. Don't Disregard the Significance of Names: Names have significant cultural importance. Make an effort to pronounce names correctly and understand their meaning if possible.