Many international banks have their
branches located in the city. Most provide ATM services so that you can withdraw money
with ease. Other than these foreign banks, there are nationalised banks too where you can
change your money or cash Travellers Cheques.
Usual banking hours are from 10:00 am to 02:00 pm from Monday to Friday
and 10:00 am to 12 noon on Saturdays. In some areas, however, weekly holidays are on
Monday or Tuesday.
Moneychangers – Most good hotels have money changing facilities. In
addition, some branches of Indian banks and foreign banks and authorised foreign exchange
dealers also provide changing services.
Biz overview and hours:
Capital city, headquarter of the Government of India, the world of busy bureaucrats; New
Delhi is the place where decisions get made, deals are sealed and big
contracts awarded. In the stately colonial buildings of Delhi power packs a solid punch
and the biggest businesses of all are transacted.
Biz protocol:
With increasing liberalisation at both the economic level and at the societal level,
business protocol has begun to adhere to western standards. In the big cities expect
thorough professionalism when dealing with private companies and high-ranking bureaucracy.
Keep appointments, be punctual (though that’s a value that Indians are only now
picking up), and shake hands if one is offered or greet with hands folded in
‘namaste’. You’ll most likely be asked questions about family and home not
because anybody wants to pry but because many Indians believe that curiosity conveys
concern.
There are many women executives, often top-level management. Most will not
take shaking hands amiss. Some however, are still conservative. So you don’t misstep,
be sensitive to how the lady greets you and respond accordingly.
Dress formally for business meetings. Women would probably be more
comfortable in trousers than a skirt. Men should wear formal cotton shirts with a tie and
trousers if the weather is warm. Otherwise a business suit is appropriate.
