If you think business etiquette in the United States is complicated, just try doing business internationally, where most cultures are far more formal and their rules very precise.

“We are the most culturally diverse nation in the world, and the most unaware of other cultures,” says Dorothea Johnson, president of the Protocol School of Washington. That means more opportunities today to offend people unwittingly, at home as well as abroad.

With increasing business conducted internationally, plus the domestic business culture broadening as more U.S. minorities enter management, the value of comfort with other cultures will only continue growing.

You can’t go wrong following these tips, but they can only touch the surface, so research the specific target culture carefully:

• When in Rome: When you’re in their country, do as they do. Especially learn and avoid the gestures, mannerisms and topics offensive to them.

• Be humble: Don’t act like your culture is superior. No one likes the Ugly American.

• Study table manners: Table manners are more formal in most societies.

• Don’t rush: Take your time to digest both meals and business deals.

• Be formal: Quick usage of first names is offensive in many cultures. Call new business acquaintances by their last names until told otherwise. Formality applies to dress as well.

• Use their language: Learn as much as you can. It’s a compliment to try your best in another language.

Of course, trying to handle intricacies of other cultures, often on short notice, means making mistakes. Sometimes very big ones. “Be humble and apologize, but don’t make an excuse,” advises Jacqueline Whitmore, founder and director of the Protocol School of Palm Beach. “Just admit you were wrong and move on.”