The negotiation process in India typically is a slow moving process because Indians prefer to build relationships before conducting business - an important part of their culture. The approach to time also tends to be quit lax. It is important to make appointments in advance and, for foreigners, it is important to be on time. Hierarchy also tends to be quite important in the culture, so paying appropriate respect to individuals, such as standing when senior members of the firm enter a room, is important. This same focus on hierarchy will typically result in final negotiations always needing the approval of the senior management of a firm. There is a cultural tendency not to say "no" directly because it may be seen as rude. As a result, phrases such as "we will need to consider this issue further" or "it may be difficult" may in fact mean no.