Vietnam · Business / work

Is direct eye contact polite in Vietnam?

Use sparingly with seniorsHigh confidence

Explanation

In Vietnamese business culture, direct eye contact with superiors or elders can be perceived as confrontational or disrespectful, as it challenges the hierarchical Confucian values. However, with peers or subordinates, moderate eye contact shows sincerity and engagement. Younger, urban professionals may be more comfortable with direct eye contact due to Western influence.

Varies locally: In rural areas and among older generations, avoiding eye contact with authority figures is more strictly observed; in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, younger businesspeople are more relaxed.

Local Tip

Maintain brief, soft eye contact with superiors, then look down slightly to show deference; with peers, hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time.

How it compares elsewhere

Japan

Prolonged eye contact is considered aggressive; brief glances or looking at the neck is polite.

United States

Direct eye contact signals confidence and honesty in business settings.

Nigeria

Sustained eye contact with elders or superiors is seen as disrespectful; younger people may avoid it.

AI-generated guidance — customs evolve and vary between people. Treat as a helpful starting point, not absolute rules.

Frequently asked

Is direct eye contact polite in Vietnam?

Use sparingly with seniors. In Vietnamese business culture, direct eye contact with superiors or elders can be perceived as confrontational or disrespectful, as it challenges the hierarchical Confucian values. However, with peers or subordinates, moderate eye contact shows sincerity and engagement. Younger, urban professionals may be more comfortable with direct eye contact due to Western influence.

What should I do instead in Vietnam?

Maintain brief, soft eye contact with superiors, then look down slightly to show deference; with peers, hold eye contact for a few seconds at a time.

Does direct eye contact mean the same everywhere in Vietnam?

In rural areas and among older generations, avoiding eye contact with authority figures is more strictly observed; in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, younger businesspeople are more relaxed.

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More etiquette in Vietnam

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“Direct eye contact” in other countries

Direct eye contact in JapanDirect eye contact in ChinaDirect eye contact in ThailandDirect eye contact in IndiaDirect eye contact in South KoreaDirect eye contact in France

See the full Vietnam etiquette guide →