To succeed in a global economy, executives must be aware of cultural differences, styles and expressions that are internationally non-offensive. In order to establish a relationship that will be mutually beneficial, knowledge of international protocol is indispensable in today’s global arena.
The areas and topics to be considered for international success are:
There is general information about the country and the people that should be researched.
- Name
- Ethnic makeup
- Value system
- Family
- Religion
- Athletics
- Holidays and festivals
Then there are specifics for each country that should be known before travel. Devoting enough time on country specific areas prior to doing business with internationals can make all the difference in establishing a good relationship. It can also make the difference in getting the business.
- Language
- Phrases
- Body language/gestures
- Handshaking
- Social space/Proxemics
- Eye contact
- Forms of address
- Dining manners
- Food preferences and/or restrictions
- Alcohol
- Toasting
- Home guidelines
- Religious and church etiquette
- Tipping
- Dress
- Restaurants
- Entertaining
- Gifts…what, when and where
- Strategic do’s and don’ts
- Time value…monochronic vs. polychronic, punctuality
- High Context vs. Low Context culture
- Corporate culture
- Business cards
- Communication…verbal and non verbal
- Gender specifics
- Health and safety
- Emergency numbers
- U. S. Embassy location, registration
- State Department warnings and information
- CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommendations
- Medical travel kit information