Intercultural Competence

Intercultural Competence

The ability to decipher other cultures in fair and meaningful ways is predicated not only on an open and pluralistic spirit but also on self-cultural awareness. When a culture is critically aware of its own strengths and limitations, it can extend its horizons and enrich its intellectual and spiritual resources by learning from alternative visions in epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, and worldviews.

Canada

Customs and Etiquette in Canada

Meeting and Greeting

• The most common greeting is the handshake.
• It should be firm and accompanied by direct eye contact and a sincere smile.
• Wait until invited before using someone's first name although Canadians tend to move to a first-name basis rapidly.
• French Canadian friends may greet each other by lightly kissing on the cheeks (once on the left cheek and once on the right).
• If using French in Quebec always use the formal pronoun "vous" (you) when speaking to someone and do not switch to the informal "tu" unless invited to do so.

Gift Giving

• In general, Canadians give gifts for birthdays and Christmas.
• If invited to someone's home for dinner, take a box of good chocolates, flowers or a bottle of wine.
• In Quebec, sending flowers in advance of the dinner party is proper protocol.
• In Quebec, if you give wine, make sure it is of the highest quality you can afford.
• Do not give white lilies as they are used at funerals.
• Do not give cash or money as a present.
• Gifts are usually opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

• Table manners are relatively relaxed and informal in Canada.
• Quebec does see a little more formality.
• Table manners are generally Continental, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• Wait to be shown to your seat.
• Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
• Do not rest your elbows on the table.
• Feel free to refuse individual foods or drink without offering an explanation.
• Leaving a small amount at the end of the meal is generally acceptable.
• In formal situations, the host gives the first toast. An honoured guest should return the toast later in the meal. Women may give toasts.

Lebanese Customs and Etiquette

Greeting people

• Greetings in Lebanon are an interesting mix of both the French and Muslim/Arab cultures.
• A warm and welcoming smile accompanied by a handshake while saying “Marhaba” is a greeting that can be given without causing offense.
• You will see the greeting close friends with three kisses on the cheek, alternating cheeks in the French style.
• Take time when greeting a person and be sure to ask about their family, health, etc.
• If man is greeting Muslim women you may find that some wish not to shake hands; it is best to see if a hand is extended or not first.

Gift Giving Etiquette

• Gifts are part and parcel of the culture and are not only for birthdays and special occasions.
• Gifts may be given to someone who has provided a favour, to someone returning from a trip overseas, or simply out of want.
• The cost of the gift is not nearly as important as what it represents – friendship.
• If you are invited to a Lebanese home, it is customary to bring flowers. If invited for a meal, you may bring sweets or pastries.
• If visiting a Muslim family, it is a good idea to say that the gift is for the host rather than the hostess.
• Gifts of alcohol are welcome in many circles. Muslims though generally do not drink alcohol.
• A small gift such a sweet for the children is always a nice touch.
• Gifts may be given with the right hand or both hands. It is best not to offer a gift with the left hand.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a Lebanese house for dinner:

• Dress well.
• Avoid sensitive topics of conversation such as politics, religion or the civil war unless you know the hosts are comfortable talking about it.
• Greet elders first.
• Lebanese table manners are relatively formal.
• Wait to be told where to sit.
• Table manners are Continental, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• You will be expected to try all foods at the table.
• Expect to be urged to take second or even third helpings. It is best to eat less on your first helping so that a second helping is possible. This shows your host you are enjoying the food and are being taken care of.