Assignment 4
With globalization, the world has become a small global village. International dealings are a normal part of the present day businesses and individuals and organizations need to understand the business etiquette in the foreign countries. When one is not aware of the foreign country’s culture, it becomes easier not to observe the culture. This can be interpreted as lack of respect, which can eventually lead to failure in the business dealing. Etiquette is essential in that, when one learns the customs and culture of another country, he/she is most likely to respect the culture and the people of that country. This is essential in developing business relationships. A normal behavior in one country may not be normal elsewhere. This calls for the need to learn the foreign country’s culture before you set to travel to that country.
Before you travel to the foreign country, you need to make some preparations including researching the business etiquette and learning few phrases in that country’s language. This helps in setting a ground for friendship and cooperation. No culture is superior to the other. Therefore, no one should judge the etiquette of others as either inferior or superior. However, one needs to find a perfect blend by toning down the behaviors that may not be welcomed by the locals.
When doing business in a foreign country, you need to observe the culture and customs in all aspects. The greeting, meeting, negotiations, and how business is conducted should conform to the culture of that country. For instance, if greeting is by shake of hands, then do so. One also needs to be aware of the legal issues when doing business in a foreign country. For instance, giving or accepting bribes may not be seen as a crime in one country.
It is also important to understand the body language of that country. Just like the culture, body language and movements are not universal and can be misinterpreted to mean a different thing. It’s therefore advisable to be calm, controlled, formal and attentive. Patting, slapping, or holding the hands of the other should be avoided.
Relationships should be very formal when doing business and the professional code of conduct should be observed at all levels. Business cards should be designed and presented in accordance with the country’s culture. The card should be translated in the local language. It is important to use translators and interpreters. This makes it much easier to understand the local business network and the legal system. Besides, interpreters act as intermediaries and this comes with multiple benefits.
Before giving the gifts, one should know the etiquette. For instance, you should know the reasons why the gift is given, whether the country’s policies allows for the gifts, how the gift is given, type of gifts, and so on. In some countries, giving gifts carry negative connotations, and is prohibited. In other countries, gifts are normal part of business and are exchanged for celebrations and as sweeteners for further favors. In some countries, you may be asked the type of gift you want while in others, gift is given as a surprise.
