1. Communicate a lot, transparently and clearly
"We hold very regular sessions with staff to communicate our approach and goals. This is necessary to get everyone on the same page. In addition, my office is very accessible, anyone can walk in here. I am transparent and honest, but my approach does vary from person to person: different strokes for different folks. The fact that Indians speak English obviously helps tremendously. Quite a difference from China. If you make a joke there, they don't understand you. With Indians, you can laugh."
Michel Koopman, Leela Palace Hotel
2. Use an interpreter
"Of course many Indians speak excellent English, but even though you speak the same language, that doesn't mean you always understand each other well. An interpreter who knows both cultures can bridge the gap between Dutch people doing business in India and their Indian executives, partners and/or employees."
3. Realize that Indians prefer not to say 'No'
Someone said to me the other day, "Mr. Koopman, we don't lie, we just don't always tell the truth."
Michel Koopman, Leela Palace Hotel
4. Be flexible
"In India, it is often not entirely clear how things work. If you find that annoying, working in India takes a lot of energy. But if you learn to deal with that, it's actually a lot of fun."
Jos van Haaren, Philips
5. Take your time
"Many foreigners who have been to India on business sit dead tired on the plane back to Europe. This is often because they don't take enough time in India. If you have an important meeting on Monday, fly the Friday before. That way you can acclimate and appear fresh and sharp at your appointment."
Gosse Wielinga, Suzlon Energy
6. Enjoy the game
"To make a good deal, you have to play the game Indian style. That means sometimes you have to say you don't have time or don't answer your phone. Then you play the difficult European, while your employees massage the other party in the meantime. That way of doing business can be frustrating at first, but after a while you learn to enjoy the game. Then you have become half an Indian." Gandert Roosen, Roosen Industries
7. Handle hierarchy smartly
"Never publicly attack a manager. That is deadly because Indian organizations tend to be very hierarchical. If you want to share critical ideas, do it in private. That is often appreciated and they usually do something with it. The hierarchy is also strongly defined by age. In India, people respect older people. So gray hair also helps to command respect from Indian staff."
Gosse Wielinga, Suzlon Energy
8. Take young employees by the hand
"Indians are very ambitious, they fight to get ahead. You notice that even at the baggage carousel at the airport: everyone is in front. You can see that on the shop floor as well. There are plenty of young people who are very driven. The trick is to take them by the hand so that you can tap into their potential. That gives enormous satisfaction."
Gosse Wielinga, Suzlon Energy