The Importance Of Cross Cultural Communication In International Business

With the advancement in technology today, employees and managers working in a global company must be able to learn and adapt to the customs and business etiquettes of not only their own country, but also that of other foreign nations. Possessing the largest manufacturing economy in the world, China has become renown for its expanding economy and its increasing interest in foreign investments. Thus, it has become imperative for employees and associates working in an international company to be well-versed and knowledgeable about the business etiquette and cultural customs of the Chinese people. Following the beliefs and teaching of Confucianism, the Chinese people places significant values on relationships and the preservation of the "face".

A country known for its practice of Islam, business travelers with work in Egypt must familiarize themselves with the customs and religious beliefs of the Egyptians. When making an appointment for a business meeting with an Egyptian, a U.S. manager or executive must take into consideration that the Egyptian Muslims have a religious obligation to pray at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and in the evening and will not be able to attend a meeting at such times. Furthermore, during the month of Ramadan, one must not insult or act unintentional rude by scheduling a luncheon or any meeting that would involve eating or drinking as all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk. Like various other countries on the world, Egyptians commonly greet others through a handshake and maybe a kiss on the cheek of the meeting is between friends or family. Unlike countries like the United States though, businessmen must pay attention when greeting an Egyptian woman as she may not feel comfortable in shaking a man 's hand and would prefer a slight nod of acknowledgement as an alternative. In addition, U.S. managers working in global companies and business travelers should learn

Comprised of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom is renowned for its geographic destination and the strong feelings of nationalism of its citizens. Though a language barrier does not exist for the most part in the United Kingdom, U.S. employees and business travelers must still familiarize themselves with the business and cultural customs of the people living in the UK in order to establish and maintain a steady business relationship. A key concept to remember when working in the UK is to understand the difference between the terms "British" and "English" in order to not offend or upset the UK business connection. When working with a business associate from England, it would be acceptable to refer to him or her as "British" or "English". However, one cannot call someone from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland "English" as it refers only to someone in England while "British" encompass people from all four nations. When working with a British from the older generation, it would be to one 's advantage to include an elder statesman or businessman in one 's team in order to strengthen the relationship between the parties and as a sign of respect because the British prefers to deal with people at their level and rank. While