Here's how to behave in a business meeting in 18 countries

When traveling abroad on a business trip, something as simple as a handshake introduction between new colleagues becomes an incredibly nuanced mini-event, capable of setting the convivial foundation necessary to strike a deal, or sabotaging the whole thing before you ever discuss page one of the docket.

In Turkey, handshakes are to be distributed to a room in order of seniority. In Singapore it is considered rude to perform anything other than a soft-touch shake with skin contact that lingers long enough to make anyone from the U.S. feel slightly awkward. In Mexico and New Zealand, men must wait for women to first instigate a handshake. Kisses on the cheek often follow a shake in Brazil, while a bow can replace a shake in Japan.

In order to avoid disrespecting your international colleagues, whether during a handshake, meal or business meeting, Cloud communication advisor GetVoIP has put together this handy infographic on the ins and outs of business etiquette in 18 countries you may someday find yourself on business. So study up and start practicing your entire international playbook of handshakes!