Cultural Awareness for the Business Traveller

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By ELAM.ca

Did you know that the thumbs up is unacceptable in Bangladesh?

10 Essential Cultural Awareness Tips

  1. Research before you leave. Find out as much as you can on the Internet before you arrive. It's very likely you'll be flying on your business trip, so why not take advantage of that flight time to read up!
  2. Don't dress up too much and neither too casual - go for the middle ground. Avoid flashy jewellery, watches, clothes, etc.
  3. Small talk goes a long way. Don't get down to business too quickly, get to know your client.
  4. Don't expect punctuality - we don't all have the same perception of time. A laid back approach is the best and don't get offended if you client is an hour late.
  5. On that same note - don't expect negotiations and meetings to run smoothly and expediently.
  6. No need for big words, easy and simpified language makes business dealings so much more effective.
  7. Listen attentively to your client - they may be struggling with their words too.
  8. Make sure you have interesting facts and photos about your own country. Foreigners generally like to learn about new places.
  9. Gift giving can be a deal-maker or deal-breaker. Find out about the local customs.
  10. Build a relationship with your client, find out about their family, their interests, etc. This final tip will go a long way in successful and long-lasting business relationshiips!

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