76 CultureShock! Egypt
common in the West. For example, casual dress in Egypt
more closely relates to what is termed ‘dressy casual’ in the
United States. What does this concern for appearance mean
for you? Well, it means that you will also be judged by your
public appearance. While you may prefer ragged jeans and
sloppy shirts, appearing in public dressed like this gives a
bad impression. You will be judged to have little pride, thus
honour, in your personal appearance if you dress shabbily.
Second, honour very importantly involves personal
integrity. A person’s word, honesty and good character
are hallmarks of an individual’s integrity, thus the family’s
honour. Trustworthiness, as evidenced through honesty and
good character, are critical to developing both personal and
business relationships throughout Egypt.A Matter of Honour
I was reminded of the importance of honour during a discussion with
a friend. When I mentioned that I wanted to bring some colleagues
to Egypt, my friend reminded me, “You know I can help them, but
I do not know these people. I know you very well and trust you.
You must be certain they are right for this—it’s a matter of honour,
you know.” Acknowledging my trustworthiness was indeed a great
compliment and a great responsibility. Needless to say, I took a
huge gulp of air and began pondering to myself whether I knew
these people well enough to place my honour, indeed my integrity,
on the line.It is through personal honour that deference behaviour
comes into play. Outsiders often wonder why Egyptians seem
to defer to others at times when foreigners customarily would
not. Deference reflects respect. It is a courteous regard for
another person that often takes the form of yielding to his
or her decisions or wishes. In other words, deference is an
honourable way Egyptians use to show appropriate respect
for someone in a perceived higher position, authority or who
might be deserving of great respect for other reasons.
Two circumstances come to mind when I think of respect
and deference in Egypt. While it is impossible to think of
all the situations where respect/deferential behaviour might
appear, hopefully the following examples will give you an