Working with Indian colleagues
Indian offices are fast, ambitious and built on relationships. Europeans who adjust a few habits find colleagues who go out of their way to help.
Relationships come first
Business in India runs on trust built through personal connection. Take time for conversation before getting to the point, accept invitations, and remember personal details. Tea and lunch matter.
Hierarchy and respect
Organisations are often more hierarchical than in Northern Europe. Senior people are addressed with respect, and decisions may move up the chain. As a European manager, you may need to actively invite disagreement: ask for options, not just answers, and make it safe to raise problems.
Communication
- Indirect communication is common. "We will try" or "it should be possible" may mean "this is difficult".
- A "yes" can mean "I heard you", not "I agree" or "it will be done". Confirm specifics: who, what, by when.
- Written follow-ups help everyone.
- WhatsApp is widely used for work communication, including with senior people.
Time and pace
Deadlines can be met with extraordinary effort, sometimes at the last minute. Meetings may start late or be rescheduled. Build buffers into plans and confirm the day before.
Working with Europe
Time zone overlap with Europe is in the Indian afternoon and evening. Be careful not to make late-evening calls the default for your Indian team.
Festivals and holidays
India has many festivals, and holidays vary by state. Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, Pongal, Onam and Durga Puja are celebrated widely or regionally. Taking part in office celebrations builds goodwill.
Language
English is the language of business in most companies. Learning a few words of Hindi or the local language (Kannada, Tamil, Marathi, Telugu, Bengali) is noticed and appreciated.
