Do you build trust over chai or consistent results?

I remember my first week in India vividly. Fresh from Germany, I was ready to dive into business discussions, agenda in hand, expecting quick decisions and clear outcomes. After all, in Germany and Switzerland, efficiency often means jumping straight into the task. But as I sat through meetings, I noticed something different, conversations meandered, personal stories were shared, and chai breaks felt almost sacred.

In #Switzerland, I had built connections over countless lunches. There, asking someone you barely know to join you for lunch is not just acceptable, it’s encouraged. It’s a deliberate space for networking, and the dining table often serves as a bridge to new collaborations.

In India, though, lunch felt different. Colleagues often stuck to their close-knit groups during lunch or dinner or discussed work over cigarettes (which could often feel exclusive). But tea breaks? That’s where the magic happened. Over a shared cup of chai, I learned more about my colleagues, their families, their dreams, and even their favourite cricket teams—than I could ever gather from a formal meeting.

It struck me that while trust in #Germany might grow through consistent results, in #India, business relationships are nurtured over shared stories and a sense of personal connection.

This shift wasn’t just cultural, it was transformational. It taught me that trust has many forms, and knowing how to navigate them can redefine the way we work across borders.

What about you? Have you experienced these contrasts in trust-building? I’d love to hear your stories. Let’s learn from each other! 🌍✨