阅读理解 Arabs consider it extremely bad manners to start talking immediately.Even the busiest government official always takes extra time to be polite and offers refreshments.No matter how busy you are, you should make time for this. The conference visit is a way of doing business throughout the Arab world.Frequently you will have to discuss in the presence of strangers, who may or may not have anything to do with your business. Do not be surprised if your meeting is interrupted several times by people who come into the room unannounced,whisper,or speak softly to the person with whom you are talking, and leave.Act as though you do not hear,and never show displeasure at being interrupted. When an Arab says yes,he may mean“maybe”.When he says maybe,he probably means “no”.You will seldom get a direct “no”from an Arab because it is considered impolite.Instead of “no”,he will say “Inshallah”,which means “if God is willing”.On the other hand,a smile and a slow nod might seem like an agreement,but in fact,your host is being polite.An Arab considers it impolite to disagree with a guest. |