India, specifically New Delhi, offers great business opportunities with its fast-growing economy and diverse market. For example, did you know that agriculture and horticulture play an important role in the Indian economy, but the country is in dire need of reform and new technologies? This presents opportunities for Dutch entrepreneurs.
But how do you navigate this colorful country as a business traveler? In this blog, you'll discover the do's and don'ts when doing business in India, including cultural etiquette rules and tips for successful business relationships. We also share practical information on transportation and recommended business hotels in New Delhi. Indulge your senses in India and discover the fascinating world of business opportunities in this breathtaking country!
First of all! Travel in and to India in a nutshell
- Fly in just over 8 hours nonstop with KLM to New Delhi or Mumbai, major economic hubs. Several airlines offer flights, including stopovers. New Delhi and Mumbai are popular business destinations, each with its own character.
- The time difference in 3.5 hours (4.5 hours in winter).
- Upon arrival at Indra Gandhi International Airport, you can easily arrange your own cab to the hotel. Be sure to go to the official cab stand to avoid scams. You can also have this transfer mostly arranged.
- For your business meetings in the city, it is best to arrange a cab through the hotel or through the Uber app. As alternatives, you can also opt for a rickshaw for an adventurous experience. Always take plenty of time, as traffic throughout India is notoriously bad.
- Prices are always negotiated; this is also expected of you. Therefore, allow for a certain margin in the opening bid and be keen on the conditions.
[/vc_column_text][mk_image src=”https://alliancetravel.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/india.jpg”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=”20″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684850174700{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]
6 tips and do's and don'ts in
1. Be formal
Indians value formal titles and like to speak to someone at the appropriate level. An initial handshake is customary, but do not touch someone after that. Avoid conversations about sensitive topics such as religion, poverty, immigration or the caste system.
2. Speak the right language
India has many languages, but English is a common language in Indian business culture. Keep in mind that the English of Indians is fairly formal. Also try to use a few words of the business partner's local language, such as a greeting or thank you. The business partner will appreciate this.
3. Nonverbal communication
Unlike in the Netherlands, Indians wiggle or shake their heads a lot. This does not mean they disagree with you. It is a sign of understanding here. Shaking the head is often a sign that they hear and understand what you are saying.
4. Invest in your business relationship
It is very important to build a personal relationship with a business associate. After all, an Indian only does business with acquaintances. Visit the Indian business partner or his company personally. Business dinners are additionally common in India to build the business relationship. It is worth the effort because a good local partner can be decisive in doing business in India.
5. Pay attention to the hierarchy
Indian society has traditionally been based on a caste system. Although the caste system is no longer the norm in business situations, working relationships in India are still often hierarchical. The boss makes the decisions. Keep this in mind. Junior employees are given clear instructions and almost no room for their own input.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684767836395{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Sweetness: 'Mithai'
In de Indiase cultuur wordt alles met zoetigheid gevierd. Wil je indruk maken op je zakelijke bespreking of zoek je een relatiegeschenk dan is een doosje met zoetigheid geen slecht idee. Ben je in Delhi, dan kun je hiervoor terecht bij de welbekende winkel ‘Haldiram’. Maar je kunt het hotelpersoneel altijd even om hulp vragen, die kunnen je er zeker bij helpen.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][mk_image src=”https://alliancetravel.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/mithai.png” image_size=”full” align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider size=”20″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684850201578{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]
Our hotel recommendations New Delhi
Below we have selected 2 good business hotels in New Delhi. Of course, there are many options depending on personal preference of the traveler, so please be sure to ask us. In New Delhi, we recommend choosing a hotel in the Connaught Place (CP) business district. Most businesses are located around here. In addition, you can also enjoy shopping here and find nice and cozy restaurants! Great for after your business meeting or to end your day with.
[/vc_column_text][mk_image src=”https://alliancetravel.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/cp-new-delhi.jpeg” image_size=”full”][mk_padding_divider size=”20″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684768171113{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]The LaLit hotel New Delhi*****
Het biedt ruime kamers met Indiase accenten, een uitgebreide spa en buitenbad voor ontspanning na een zakelijke bijeenkomst. Het hotel beschikt over een eigen business centrum en diverse restaurants, waaronder Baluchi (Indiaas) en Woks (Chinees). Wil je toch liever van de bruisende stad genieten, reserveer dan een plekje bij het Rooftop restaurant OKO, dit restaurant serveert Aziatische gerechten met 360 graden uitzicht over de stad.[/vc_column_text][mk_image src=”https://alliancetravel.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/the-lalit.jpg” image_size=”full”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684768337744{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Foto: The LaLit hotel New Delhi
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684768921092{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa New Delhi*****
Dit luxe vijfsterrenhotel biedt volledige service en is voorzien van alle gemakken. Gelegen in het hart van het zakelijke en commerciële centrum van New Delhi, biedt het hotel gemakkelijke toegang tot zakelijke en financiële centra, ministeries, ambassades en de internationale handelsbeurs. Met stijlvolle vergaderzalen en een eigen business center is het hotel ideaal voor zakelijke bijeenkomsten. Daarnaast biedt het hotel ook authentieke restaurants voor heerlijk dineren.[/vc_column_text][mk_image src=”https://alliancetravel.nl/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/the-met.jpg” image_size=”full”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1684768393926{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Foto: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa New Delhi[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
After reading this blog, are you interested or want more information about business travel to India or New Delhi? Our Business Travel Consultants at your service!
