In your personal meetings with Arabs, be sure to employ extravagant flattery. Arabs are used to hyperbolic praise and are not embarrassed by the sort of talk that would make most Westerners blush. They may not necessarily believe such praise, but nevertheless enjoy and expect it.

Try the following quiz on Arab business culture:

1. Your Arab acquaintance asks, "How are you doing?" She expects you to respond with:

   1. "I'm having a bad day, but happy to meet you."

   2. "Fine, thank you."

   3. "Sorry, but I'm in a rush."

   4. "I've been sick all day."

When asked how you are, you should answer honestly (a) and, in return, inquire after the person's well-being, finally asking "What do you do?" This may open the door for many other business opportunities and expand your contacts among other Arab business executives. Flatter them back and you will be delighted with their accommodation. Don't respond automatically with the American answer, "fine, thank you."

1. Upon exchanging business cards with an Arab executive, he will most likely:

   1. Ask you to explain the meaning of your name.

   2. Admire the quality of your business card and title.

   3. Look at your title to see if you're an important person in your company.

   4. Ask what you do.

Arabs will find a way to show their eloquence by (b) admiring the color or quality of your business card or your title. Remember, you must reciprocate by remarking on their importance within the executive's own company and society. Of course, they will look...