Be Aware of Cultural Differences

Doing business across cultures can be challenging, fun and profitable. Recruiting, hiring, decision-making, building of relationships, customer needs, and even business terminology can differ in diverse country contexts. It takes time, conscious effort and the right questions to understand how people see the world and therefore view business. For instance:

1. In Germany, the word “career” has a negative connotation. It suggests someone is climbing the ladder on the backs of others.
2. In Brazil, “friendliness” is the most important value in business relationships. If you aren’t seen as friendly, you won’t get anywhere.
3. In Singapore, the top tier graduates out of the best schools go into public service jobs — to help run the country.

For more information, contact Melissa Lamson at Lamson Consulting.