How to learn a language and a new culture can help in International Business
International Business No Comments »
article by Aaron Cibo
There is no question that international business requires a deep understanding of other cultures and there is no doubt that without learning the language is difficult, to gain insight into and understanding of the cultures of other countries. The knowledge of the language and understanding of culture can help you be more effective in its international trade relations, thus preventing accidental or abusive reserved. Because of the profound differences between entrenched cultural practices, which is done with the best intentions, could be counter-productive.
This is best illustrated with an example. We all know the importance of China in the international business map and how important it is to do business with them. However, if President George W. Bush in the United States a gift to Prime Minister of China, Li Peng, was the gift of a pair of cowboy boots with the flags of the United States and China was established. You may think this is a beautiful gift, which includes the traditional culture of the United States, but the reality of the situation was quite different. Unfortunately, the Chinese view on the soles of the least of the body regions and a gift of his shoes is therefore a major misstep. This was a major oversight by U.S. diplomats. course, includes the international business much more to learn another language, but there is no doubt that this makes it easier to understand. For example, if you are looking to do business in the Middle East, the basic foundation of a rock solid relationship can not look into legal language, or contracts. In fact, the legal system in many countries of this region is slow and inconsistent, and there is a perception that Americans are too legalistic. What you need is a relationship with your partner at every stage and this involves both knowledge of the language and culture. Steal modern means of communication such as e-mail some of the traditional signs such as body language to understand how your partner is our way of thinking and acting. Language spoken face to face often produces valuable signals such as eye contact and intonation. For example, if you have an e-mail to a Japanese businessman, it would be wise not to informal language that prevails in modern communication, how to use the receiver with the greeting “Hello”. Instead, you should be very formally followed in their communication and avoiding the use of first names, the address of the recipient by his last name with the word “San”.