Lebanon

Greetings

Man greeting Man - Men usually greet one with a warm handshake (always use the right hand). Handshakes usually linger a bit. When greeting a good friend or someone familiar, a series of three kisses (alternating cheeks) will be included in the introduction. When greeting those of Islamic descent, using the phrase ‘Salaamu Aleikum’ (peace be upon you) or Salaam accompanied by a handshake or nod of acknowledgment is most common.

Woman greeting Woman - Women greet each other in a similar manner to men. Handshakes (always use the right hand) and kisses (three kisses alternating cheeks) are common. During initial meetings, a verbal greeting and/or nod of acknowledgment is also acceptable for many people.

Greetings between Men & Women – In most areas, a handshake is the norm in formal and business situations. When greeting a good friend or someone familiar, a series of three kisses (alternating cheeks) will usually be included in the introduction. In Islamic societies, social interactions between non-related members of the opposite sex are not as frequent, so as a result the handshake/kiss will usually not be included in the introduction. You will be able to tell if the person you are being introduced to is leery of a handshake as they will most likely fold their hand up and across their chest to let you know they do not intend to shake hands. Always wait for the woman to initiate, if at all.

Communication Style

• The communication style usually depends how well people know each other, but in general people tend to be more indirect than direct.
• It is common to see displays of anger in public, especially on the street and in traffic.
• People will often speak in loud voices. This is not always because of anger; it may be just showing another emotion.
• Family is a very important aspect of the culture and asking about one’s family is usually greatly appreciated.
• In the current political situation it is better to steer clear of talking or enquiring about political/religious subjects.

Personal Space & Touch

• The amount of personal space that one is given depends greatly on the situation but it is usually quite close, less than arms length. This space may be a bit greater in business/formal situations and between genders as well.
• It is common for good friends of the same sex to hold hands or interlock arms while walking and talking together. This is a way of expressing their friendship.
• Touching is common during conversations, especially between members of the same gender.
• Between genders, touching during conversations may be considered inappropriate. However, it usually depends on the sub culture (Muslims tend to be more traditional, Christians tend to be more open.

Eye Contact

• Direct eye contact is acceptable to a degree between sexes. It becomes less so –especially if it’s direct and prolonged – between elders/kids and boss/employee.
• Between genders, direct eye contact becomes loaded with sexual innuendos, and a girl accepting or initiating eye contact can be considered an invitation for something more intimate in certain sub cultures.

Gestures

• Some of the most common facial expressions are used to say ‘no’ or negate something. This can be done by raising the eyebrows and nodding the head up slightly or by making a ‘tch’ sound by pulling the tongue off the roof of one’s mouth, or to really emphasize the point, combine both of these actions.
• Shaking the head side to side usually mean you don’t understand rather than “no”.
• Most people point with a single finger, just not the middle one.
• To beckon someone, you wave with the palm down, clapping your fingers into your palm in a scratching motion.
• In most Islamic societies its best to avoid showing the sole of your foot or using the foot to move anything. This includes pointing the toe or heel or any part of the foot at any person.

Views of Time

• Time is not usually considered a valued commodity. Being late is a common practice; it may even be a sign of being fashionable when coming late to parties and social events.
• In business, it is common practice to make appointments or deadlines that are rarely followed.

Gender Roles

• Women hold almost all of the same rights as men and hold positions of power in the political, corporate, and civil defense arenas.
• In religiously observant households, women are expected to do most if not all of the cooking, cleaning, and child rearing. Many do not work outside the home.

Taboos

• Giving someone the middle finger is a rude gesture.
• It is taboo to discuss or display homosexuality. This can result in serious consequences.

Law & Order

• The legal drinking age is 18, not heavily enforced; especially in supermarkets or stores where anyone can buy alcohol.
• Penalties for possession, trafficking, or use of illegal drugs are serious. Offenders can expect jail sentences and/or heavy fines.

Dress

• For Men – Stylish suits and ties are common for initial meetings. Darker colors are the way to go. Business casual attire is becoming more and more acceptable in many industries.
• For Women - Conservative yet stylish is a good choice. Pants are acceptable. Women are usually fully made-up and wear accessories. Dress is more open in urban environments vs. rural. It is best to dress more conservatively (dresses/skirts cut above the knee, no low necklines or sleeveless attire) when in religiously conservative areas
• Jeans and shorts are not usually acceptable in business situations.
• Being well-groomed is appreciated.

Titles & Business Cards

• It is best to use the titles Mr., Mrs., and Miss, followed by the last name until you are on a first name basis. “Uztaz” is common title for superiors. It means “sir”.
• There is no formal protocol surround the giving and receiving of business cards. It is always best to treat the card with respect.

Negotiations

• Bargaining is expected and being honest about price is generally considered very bad for business and amateurish.
• Decisions are often influenced by personal relationships versus merit or rational thinking.

Gift Giving

• Gifts are not generally exchanged at initial business meetings.
• If invited to a Lebanese home, an appropriate gift would be sweets or flowers.
• Gifts should be of modest cost as anything overly expensive may be viewed as a bribe or insult.

In the Classroom

• The Lebanese grading scale is based out of 100. A-F is also used. Typically, a passing mark stands at 65 or a D for most classes.

• Lecture is the most common form of teaching.