CEC CEC International & Cross-Cultural Etiquette 2

Question 1

In which culture is it considered disrespectful to maintain prolonged eye contact during conversation?

Accepted Answer

Many East Asian and some indigenous cultures, where sustained eye contact can signal aggression

Answer

In many East Asian and some indigenous cultures, sustained direct eye contact can be perceived as confrontational or disrespectful rather than confident.

Question 2

A CEC helping a client prepare for a meeting in India should advise that the head wobble (bobbing side to side) typically means:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledgment, understanding, or agreement — not disagreement

Answer

The Indian head wobble is a common nonverbal cue indicating understanding, agreement, or acknowledgment, and is not a negative gesture.

Question 3

When entering a home or temple in several Southeast Asian countries, a CEC should advise removing:

Accepted Answer

Shoes before entering, as footwear is considered spiritually unclean indoors

Answer

In many Southeast Asian cultures, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, shoes must be removed before entering homes and religious sites.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the French approach to business meals?

Accepted Answer

Business meals are social occasions — business discussion should wait until after eating and coffee

Answer

In France, business meals are primarily social, and it is considered impolite to launch into business discussion before the meal is enjoyed — talk comes with coffee afterward.

Question 5

What is the significance of the concept 'face' (mianzi) in Chinese business culture, and why must a CEC understand it?

Accepted Answer

It refers to social reputation and dignity — publicly criticizing or embarrassing a Chinese partner causes serious relationship damage

Answer

Mianzi (face) represents a person's social reputation and dignity in Chinese culture; causing someone to lose face publicly can irreparably damage a business relationship.

(CEC) Certified Etiquette Consultant Practice Test

(CEC) Certified Etiquette Consultant Practice Test

CEC CEC International & Cross-Cultural Etiquette 2