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12 Tips
for Global Business Travelers
Sondra Sen
author of
International Business Interacts, specific cross-cultural business guides on
50 countries
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Learn something about the country, local customs, and
cultural sensitivities to avoid making faux pas while
abroad.
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Err on the side of formality. Be low-key in dress, manners, and
behavior.
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Don't rush greetings and introductions in an effort to get down
to business quickly.
Expect your
meetings and
negotiations to be longer
than anticipated. Build more time into schedules.
Don't show impatience or irritation. Politeness and respect
matter.
Express yourself carefully. Accents, idioms, and business jargon
may be unfamiliar.
Listen attentively to show
that you care about what is being said.
Indicate a sincere interest in your colleagues, their concerns
and issues, to build
win-win solutions.
Don't put global colleagues on the spot or cause loss of face by
being too direct or expecting a "yes" or "no" answer.
Avoid public criticism or comparison with your own country.
Familiarize yourself with customs surrounding gift-giving and
business entertaining.
Build relationships and
trust, which is the key
to successful global
partnerships.
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