Cultural differences in business entertaining include issues such as whom one entertains a

nd where and how one entertains. In countries in which status is important, it is not advisable to invite people of different statuses to the same dinner party. Americans will often invite people to their homes. While in some societies the home is considered too private, unworthy, or embarrassingly small to serve as an appropriate forum for business entertaining. In some countries there is a " help yourself " approach to entertaining done in the home. This approach does not work well when entertaining people whose culture teaches them to wait to be asked three times before accepting an offer of food. In one instance, a Chinese guest went an entire evening without eating though he was quite hungry because he was too embarrassed to take food after only being asked to do so once. In another case, an American woman executive was being entertained at tea in London. After having the tea served, the American woman helped herself to cream and sugar rather than waiting to be served. The English woman was embarrassed by the implication that she was not serving quickly enough.

As a general rule, a small gift from your home country is appreciated. A gift that is tied to the particular interest of the individual is especially appreciated. Gifts for children are also well received. Be careful that the "hometown" gift you are bringing to Singapore was not made in Hong Kong. Because many gifts carry symbolic meanings, it is always best to seek the advice of a cultural informant before selecting gifts. The giving of large gifts, or payments for special service, should only be undertaken after consulting the legal department in the home and host culture.

It is no good inviting people of different social positions to the same party in the country where ______.

A．people don't pay any attention to your positions

B．people care much about their statuses

C．entertainment is important

D．entertainment is not advisable