Greeting Norms

“Xin Chao” (Hello), Chào buổi sang (Good morning), and Chào buổi tối (Good evening), are the common verbal greetings and can be used in both formal and informal circumstances. Shaking hands is a norm in Vietnam. Some people may use both hands, with one of the hands on top of the other person’s hand. Handshakes may be accompanied with a slight nod of the head. This indicates respect. When greeting someone of the opposite sex it is better to do it verbally and with a nod or slight bow, and wait for your counterpart’s reaction, since Vietnamese women don’t usually shake hands with each other or with men. Elders are very respected in Vietnamese culture and should be greeted with exceptional respect, either with both hands or with a bow or nod, with no direct gaze.

Communication Styles

The Vietnamese are known to be indirect communicators, therefore, you should try to read between the lines and pay attention to non-verbal forms of communication, such as posture, expression, and tone of voice. Like in most Asian cultures, there is a special care for politeness and ‘saving face’, a concept that relates to the individual and community’s dignity and status. For this reason, saying no in a blunt way can be quite challenging for the Vietnamese, so you must look for hints, like hesitation. Silence is appreciated in Vietnamese culture and there is no need to feel uncomfortable in case you find yourself in such scenario.

Personal space and touching

Show of affection in public is not encouraged, especially between women and men. However, between same-gender friends it is not unlikely that you will see displays of affection, like holding-hands, or walking arm in arm. Also, it is important to keep in mind that touching the head of someone, even of a child, as well as passing something over someone’s head is considered rude and disrespectful.

Eye contact and gestures

Direct eye contact should be avoided on the street and with those of opposite gender, older or with a higher status. Nonetheless, it is expected among peers. Loud talking and with too many gestures can be seen as impolite or inconsiderate. Also, pointing is considered disrespectful. 

Instead, you can use your open hand to signal, which represents the same thing. Standing with your hands on your hips is considered rude, as it an expression of arrogance and, in Vietnamese culture, humility is highly appreciated.