How you handle yourself when visiting a foreign country is an important element of conducting international business.

In addition to the easily observed dress, food and folklore, culture also consists of the less easily or perhaps more intangible, observed knowledge, values, beliefs, customs and laws shared by members of a society. It is also important to realize that people from other cultures do not necessarily think, communicate, and do things the same way that you do.

Understanding the cultural characteristics of a particular market audience will help you to carefully choose your words and how you use them, and will help you establish trust and lay the foundation for successful international business.

Language

If you know the language of your foreign market, you immediately begin to optimize your business environment. If the language in the foreign market is different, master at least a few words and greetings. Your efforts will be worth it and appreciated.

Quick Tips

• Be humble, culturally sensitive and willing to expand your knowledge of the country.
• Use titles when addressing your foreign counterparts; first name basis may come later
• Adjust your vocabulary, slow down and avoid jargon and colloquial expressions.
• Use short words and short sentences. But try and avoid using shortened version of words like “he’ll” instead of “he will” etc.
• Encourage two-way dialogue for the purpose of building mutual understanding of anticipated results.
• Develop a clear process to promote collaboration on goals, roles, responsibilities and accountabilities.

Sources of Information

• Your business partners both at home and overseas.
• Local ethnic communities
• Bilateral trade organizations, trade centers and industry associations
• Embassies and trade offices in your own country and in your target market
• Executiveplanet.com
  Great guide by country
• The Lonely Planet- Destinations
  Maps, guides, and practical advice summarized from thousands of travelers.
• Columbus Guides
  An invaluable source of comprehensive and detailed information for every country in the world.

Source: www.exportsource.ca

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