Intercultural Interview Topics and Questions

Social Customs

• How do people react to strangers? Are they friendly? Hostile? Reserved?

• How do people greet each other?

• What are the appropriate manners when you enter a room? Bow? Nod? Shake hands with everyone?

• How are names used for introductions? Is it appropriate to inquire about one's occupation or family?

• What are the attitudes toward touching?

• How does one express appreciation for an invitation to anoth- er's home? Bring a gift? Send flowers? Write a thank-you note? Are any gifts taboo?

• Are there any customs related to how or where one sits?

• Are any facial expressions or gestures considered rude?

• How close do people stand when talking?

• What is the attitude toward punctuality in social situations? In business situations?

• What are acceptable eye contact patterns?

• What gestures indicate agreement? Disagreement?

Family Life

• What is the basic unit of social organization? Basic family? Extended family?

• Do women work outside of the home? In what occupations?

Housing, Clothing, and Food

• Are there differences in the kinds of housing used by different social groups? Differences in location? Differences in furnishings?

• What occasions require special clothing?

• Are some types of clothing considered taboo?

• What is appropriate business attire for men? For women?

• How many times a day do people eat?

• What types of places, food, and drink are appropriate for business entertainment? Where is the seat of honor at a table?

Class Structure

• Into what classes is society organized?

• Do racial, religious, or economic factors determine social status?

• Are there any minority groups? What is their social standing?

a special one-time event that would benefit a great number of stu- dents, or officer training.

Your Task. Request one-time funding to cover what you need by writing an unsolicited letter or memo proposal to your assistant dean, who oversees student business clubs. Identify your need or problem, show the benefit of your request, support your claims with evidence, and provide a budget (if necessary).