International business situation

• Entering a new market.
• Maintaining business relationships.
• Finding new suppliers.
• Researching market conditions.
• Networking events.

Cultural Awareness

When doing business in another country, it’s very important that you are aware of their business etiquette and some of their important cultural customs. You don’t need to be an expert on every country, but it would be a good idea to do some research on the country you’re planning to visit.

Now, let’s take a look at four areas you’ll want to focus your research.

1. Time, punctuality, and scheduling.
2. Respect and avoiding being rude.
3. Food and dining.
4. Giving gifts.

Absence of obligation

• However, in other countries you don’t have to show up exactly on time.
• You don’t have to look directly at the other person’s eyes all the time.
• You needn’t lie.
• You don’t have to stand on the other side of the room.

Practice task

Think about cultural etiquette when doing business in your home country or with someone from it. Write down 5 things that are not necessary to do, using “needn’t” and “don’t have to”.

• If your matter is urgent and is early in the morning (before 8:30 a.m.), you don’t have to call the Mexican client, it is better to send an email.
• You needn’t have business dinners. Lunches are better viewed.
• You don’t have to write your contact details by hand when you hand in your business card.
• If your client is late for the meeting. You needn’t despair, it is normal for the Mexican client to be a little late.
• You don’t have to give or expect favors.