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Jun 11

Doing Business in South Africa: Getting Ready for the World Cup 2010

Cross Cultural Training, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for the Public sector No Comments »
Cape Town kensorrie i1 Doing Business in South Africa: Getting Ready for the World Cup 2010

© istockphoto.com/kensorrie

As the World Cup football tournament kicks off, the whole world is watching South Africa. For many, the lead-up to the tournament has provided the opportunity to do business with South Africa for the first time since the fall of apartheid in the 1990s.

Since the release of Nelson Mandela from Robben Island prison in 1990, South Africans have sought to reconcile their differences and unify the ‘Rainbow Nation’ under a coherent government that benefits all by improving social conditions and building a strong economy. This has led to strengthening ties with other economies and development projects such as hosting the 2010 World Cup.

 

The inward investment in South Africa and the new relationships with international companies involved with construction, infrastructure development, marketing and travel and tourism, amongst other fields, means that people in companies all over the world will be dealing with new colleagues and partners in South Africa.

South Africa is a uniquely diverse country, which, due to its history, is home to people of African, Asian and European origins. There is diversity even within these groups, with large populations of Europeans of both English and Afrikaans descent, many tribes of Africans, such as Xhosa, Zulu or Tsonga, and Asians from throughout that continent.

The complex cultural landscape created by the representatives of different continents is further complicated by the cultural differences that exist between those belonging to the smaller groups. These cultural differences are the source of diverse communication styles and different approaches to doing business.

How can a person doing business with South Africans for the first time know the best approach to communication and working given the variety of cultures they might be dealing with?

Colleagues from the Xhosa or Tsonga tribes, for example, might be very exuberant or expressive in their behaviour, while Afrikaner colleagues, in contrast, could be very serious and taciturn. Learning about the different communication styles and attitudes you will find when doing business in South Africa can help you anticipate differences and adapt your style accordingly ensuring a more successful interaction.

Cross Cultural Awareness Training courses such as Communicaid’s Doing Business in South Africa equips you and your employees with the knowledge you need to work effectively with colleagues and business partners in South Africa, enabling you to develop successful business relationships and strengthen international ties.

With the backing of Communicaid’s intercultural training courses, you can ensure that you get the results you need from the World Cup, no matter what happens on the pitch!

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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Jun 10

Perceptions of Animals across Cultures: Man’s Best Friend or Dirty Beast?

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for the Public sector 1 Comment »

When living and working in another country, there are numerous things to consider apart from the more obvious ones of climate, language, religion, currency, etc. Some important considerations are less obvious. For example, do you have a pet or do you enjoy a hobby such as horse riding? Your animal or hobby may be perceived in a completely different light in another culture so it’s important to consider the significance given to specific animals in different parts of the world and general perceptions towards them.

One example which is often mentioned in popular press is the case of dogs. In some cultures, like the US or UK, dogs are loved and considered a great pet to have at home and with the family. In other cultures, such as those where Islam is the majority religion, dogs may be perceived as dirty or dangerous. Muslims’ treatment of dogs is still a matter of debate amongst Islamic scholars . While these animals are widely considered by many Western cultures to be ‘man’s best friend’, the Koran describes them as unhygienic. Muslims will therefore avoid touching a dog unless he can wash his hands immediately afterwards, and they will almost never keep a dog in their home.

Cairo sunset clu i Perceptions of Animals across Cultures: Man’s Best Friend or Dirty Beast?

© istockphoto.com/ Clu

 

In Iran, for instance, a cleric once denounced ‘the moral depravity’ of dog owners and even demanded their arrest. If you are an international assignee living and working in Saudi Arabia or another Arabic country, you should remember this when inviting Arab counterparts to your house in case you have a dog as a pet. This is just one example of how Islam and other cultural beliefs can impact on aspects of everyday life that someone else may not even question. A Middle Eastern man might be very surprised when going to Japan, for instance, and seeing dogs being dressed and pampered like humans and carried around in baby prams!

Dogs are not the only animals which are perceived quite differently from one culture to another. In India, for example, cows are sacred and are treated with the utmost respect. Conversely in Argentina, beef is a symbol of national pride because of its tradition and the high quality of its cuts. An Indian working in Argentina who has not done his research or participated in a cross cultural training programme such as Doing Business in Argentina may be surprised at his first welcome dinner with his Argentinean counterparts where a main dish of beef would be served.

It is therefore crucial to be aware of the specific values assigned to objects or animals in different cultures to avoid faux-pas or cultural misunderstandings, particularly when living and working in another culture. Learning how people value animals and other symbols around the world is one of the numerous cultural examples discussed in Communicaid’s intercultural training courses. Understanding how your international colleagues may perceive certain animals can help you ensure you aren’t insensitive and it may even provide you with a good topic for conversation.

Communicaid’s cross cultural training for relocation courses can be specifically tailored to meet the needs of your business and prepare your employees for any international assignment or business venture. Our courses are tailored to include all potential topics of interest and problems that might arise to prepare your workforce to deal with them appropriately.

Living and working abroad requires not only knowledge of the business culture of a particular country, but also a more in-depth understanding of its culture and wider traditions. Such understanding will facilitate fruitful relationships and successful business partnerships wherever you need to go.

© Communicaid Group Ltd.2010

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Jun 07

A Dangerous Culture? Mexico’s War on Drugs and its Impact on Business Development

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector, Language Training No Comments »
Mexico City andres balcazar i A Dangerous Culture? Mexico’s War on Drugs and its Impact on Business Development

© istockphoto.com/ Andres Balcazar

In recent years, news about Mexico in the foreign media tends to revolve around one topic – the deadly warfare taking place in the country since President Felipe Calderón declared a ‘War on Drugs’ at the start of his presidency in 2006. His intention was to disband the Mexican drug cartels who took control of the profitable trafficking routes left by the Colombian cartels defeated in the 1990s. Yet, this approach backfired and violence has escalated to the extent that the city of Juarez in the border state of Chihuahua has a murder rate three times higher than any other city in Mexico, making it the most violent in the country.

While these could be frightening events for companies thinking about doing business in Mexico, these headlines show only one side of the picture. In fact, living and working in Mexico should not be any more daunting than, say, living and working in Argentina or living and working in Chile.

Even though drug cartels and gangs do pose a real danger, this danger tends to affect people already heavily involved in the drug trade rather than the population in general. Violent incidents generally occur around border or seaside towns within a few states in Mexico, meaning there is only a limited impact on the remaining twenty-plus states.

Mexico, a newly industrialised country, is the eleventh largest economy in the world and the second largest in Latin America, only behind Brazil. Mexico is a member of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and of numerous Free Trade Agreements, including the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

 

Mexico also has one of the fastest-growing middle classes in the world, whose spending power provides numerous and profitable opportunities for foreign investment. Additionally, Mexico has a proven record of high-quality industrial manufacturing, the car industry being the perfect example as Volkswagen, Toyota, BMW and General Motors, among many others, have set up successful business ventures there.

Tourism also plays a vital role in the Mexican economy, as Mexico is among the tenth most visited countries in the world. Tourist destinations range from the impressive ruins of Mexico’s ancient civilisations to idyllic beach resorts to highly industrialised and modern cities. A world-renowned cuisine, rich cultural history and the friendliness of its people make doing business in Mexico a very interesting and attractive business experience. Foreign companies should therefore ignore the benefits of doing business in Mexico at their own peril.

Mexicans are very friendly and open to foreigners, however a good knowledge and appreciation of the local culture and traditions will go a long way when doing business in Mexico. Communicaid’s cross cultural awareness training courses are essential for companies thinking about setting up business in Mexico or already dealing with Mexican partners.

While doing business in Mexico may seem less foreign to Europeans than doing business in Angola, for instance, knowing the local business etiquette and communication practices will ensure a smooth transition for international assignees, short-term visitors or managers who work on long-term projects or communicate virtually with Mexico. Communicaid’s Doing Business in Mexico cross cultural awareness training course will help you to understand Mexican business and social culture and build strong business partnerships with your Mexican colleagues.

Learning a bit of Spanish will also go a long way in making the right impression and building a solid relationship. Communicaid’s Latin American Spanish language courses will help give your company an edge when doing business in Mexico. Even if you do not attain a level of fluency in Mexican Spanish, understanding how Latin American and Iberian Spanish are as different as American and British English and learning a few key greetings and expressions will help you secure a good deal when doing business in Mexico.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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Jun 07

Challenges of Doing Business in Thailand

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector 1 Comment »

The modern Kingdom of Thailand has flourished for over two centuries, during which time a society built on tolerance and hospitality, openness and fervent independence has developed. Geographically, the country is at the centre of what was until the 1950s French Indo-China.  However, the Thai people were never subjected to foreign colonial rule – a fact of which they are extremely proud.

Thai culture has been influenced and shaped by a number of diverse sources, such as Chinese culture and Buddhist and Hindu philosophies. This mix has led to a complex way of thinking which must be understood to interact successfully with Thai counterparts.  By completing a cross-cultural training programme for business and management such as Doing Business in Thailand, your organisation will be better equipped to form coherent strategies for profitable and enduring associations with counterparts in Thailand.

Below are some of the major conceptual challenges to understanding Thai business culture and society.

 

Asian businesswoman francisblack i 424x282 Challenges of Doing Business in Thailand

© istockphoto.com/ Francis Black

Face
The concept of saving face is important in Thai society. Thais will do anything to prevent loss of face, including avoiding confrontation or telling others what they want to hear rather than dealing with immediate issues. Criticising someone in public and not staying true to promises are various ways that people may be perceived to ‘lose face’ in Thailand.

Collectivism
Thailand is a collectivist society in which the needs of the group are often placed over those of the individual. Family and community concerns will almost always be put above business or individual needs. Family in particular plays an important role in Thai society. You will notice that close ties between extended families and communities can have a major influence on individual behaviour in Thailand and often there are multiple generations living under one roof.

Indirect Communication
Being subtle and indirect are valued characteristics in Thai communication. In conversation, a considerable part of the information lies in underlying messages or in non-verbal cues. Thai people avoid direct confrontation, and criticism, if given at all, is delivered indirectly.

Family
As the cornerstone of Thai society, the family is attributed great value and importance. Thai families are close and several generations may live in the same house, with the oldest male being the head of the household. The power structure of the family is mirrored in the organisational environment. Advice from elders is expected to be followed without question, although this is becoming less true with time and modernisation.

Thailand is a fascinating and complex country, influenced by centuries of religious philosophy, immigrant know-how and wisdom coming from foreign trade and commerce. This complexity can be hard to understand for the outsider in Thailand, and an obstacle to doing business. By enrolling members of your organisation on a cross cultural awareness training course such as Doing Business in Thailand or Living and Working in Thailand, your organisation will be able to form strategies to cope with and manage interactions when doing business in Thailand.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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Jun 03

Working across Cultures: the Challenges of Virtual Communication

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector 3 Comments »
Business Woman on laptop 2 quavondo i Working across Cultures: the Challenges of Virtual Communication

© istockphoto.com/ Quavondo

Virtual communication is a vital asset for international business. It allows business people to hold international business meetings without having to move from their offices. It also eliminates the need to spend time and money on travel and reduces the frustration that can result from it. Virtual communication is also an excellent way of bringing together people from a variety of cultural backgrounds who offer a number of diverse perspectives and opinions that can help international organisations harness skill and knowledge from around the world.

  

Although virtual communication has a huge number of advantages, it also presents an array of challenges for a wide group of people around the world. Many people recognise that virtual communication prevents us from sharing any non-verbal communication such as gestures or facial expressions. However what they do not realise is that for many cultures, the non-verbal part of the message is actually one of the most important aspects of communication.

Virtual communication can present challenges for a vast majority of people, but it can be even more difficult for individuals in cultures that strongly emphasise relationships. When doing business with counterparts in southern Europe or South America, for instance, you may find they experience difficulties when using virtual communication. You may also find that they feel frustrated by not having the possibility to socialise directly with their international counterparts. The lack of physical contact like a pat on the shoulder or a firm handshake can also make them feel that there is definitely something missing in the message they are sending to their counterparts.

Virtual communication can also be difficult when it involves people with a different communication style. Low context communicators who rely a lot on the meaning of words, such as North Americans, are likely to find it difficult to communicate virtually with high context communicators, like Indians, who will tend to deliver part of their message with silence or non-verbal signs. In this particular case, the virtual method of communication itself becomes an obstacle.

 

Chinese businessman with cellphone i 425x283 Working across Cultures: the Challenges of Virtual Communication

© istockphoto.com/ Hfng

How can virtual teams overcome these difficulties? Meeting face-to-face every now and then seems to be one of the most appropriate solutions however it can be impractical and expensive. Team members are often located on different continents and moving every member for the sole purpose of having a face-to-face meeting where they can socialise and build relationships is usually unrealistic for international organisations with an eye on the bottom line.

The use of ‘friendly’ means of communication can be a good alternative to help your teams to socialise. For example, using video conferencing helps to put a face to the name and allows people to see non-verbal communication. Creating special channels of ‘small talk’ for the team such as a dedicated virtual chat room on the corporate intranet can give people the opportunity to have more informal conversations.

Effective remote working or management of virtual teams can be challenging, but intercultural training can help you develop strategies and skills to more effectively communicate with international counterparts. Communicaid’s cross cultural awareness training courses like Managing Virtual Teams or Effective Virtual Working can help you identify the most appropriate solutions and develop skills to effectively manage the virtual element.

Providing cross cultural training to a virtual team will make them aware of the potential difficulties of virtual working and ensure they find ways of making the most of their communication. It’s also a perfect opportunity to bring the team together in a face-to-face context, or they can do a virtual training session which will truly help them identify and deal with virtual challenges they face.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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Jun 02

What is the most challenging destination for an international assignment?

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector 3 Comments »

China and India are often regarded as two of the most challenging destinations for international assignments. However, there are difficulties awaiting every expatriate, regardless of their destination.

Many people assume that cultures which are drastically different to their own will cause them the most challenges, however going to a country that has a similar set of cultural values or language can be even more problematic if international assignees are not prepared for possible pitfalls like assumptions of similarity, stereotypes, cultural differences and a lack of preparation which can lead to a failed expatriation experience.

Flags 2 Daniel Cardiffi1 What is the most challenging destination for an international assignment?

© istockphoto/Daniel Cardiff

 

If we take the example of a British international assignee living and working in the US, the so called cultural closeness between the two countries (and thus strong assumptions of similarity) can create frustration and critical incidents. But there are indeed huge cultural differences between the US and the UK, and the fact that both countries speak the “same” language does not always help.

In fact, speaking the “same” language can actually hurt as many will not expect differences. US natives are not usually familiar with the nuances and turn of phrases used by the British, while the British may be confused by differences in vocabulary and business jargon. Small differences in the way English is spoken and used in each culture can lead to severe misunderstandings. Adding to the language are the many cultural values, attitudes and working habits which are often very different.

An international assignment in India or China presents a unique set of challenges. It is commonly accepted that these countries have their own values and cultural flavour; this is why intercultural training programmes are increasingly offered to expatriates going to work there. However, understanding the culture of these countries is one thing, living there every day is another. Living the rush hour in New Delhi or trying the unusual (from a westerner perspective!) Chinese cuisine cannot be explained, it has to be experienced first hand.

That being said, understanding the cultural drivers, values and traditions and having a set of strategies that help international assignees deal with any challenges they may encounter is essential for anyone going on an international assignment, no matter how ‘challenging’ the destination. This is where cross cultural training for relocation can help, whether it’s for the employee moving or their family or both, any destination which is deemed challenging can be turned into a destination of opportunity and success with the right kind of training and support.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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Jun 01

Benefits of Doing Business in Poland

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources 1 Comment »

A country of unique culture, history and geography, Poland increasingly attracts foreign business from all over the world thanks to recent economic changes. The last decade has been very successful for the country’s economic growth and transformation. Joining NATO in 1999 and the European Union in May 2004 have opened the Polish market to foreign investors and development opportunities.

Poland receives one of the largest pools of EU funding for development and infrastructure which makes it very attractive to foreign investors. Its location in the heart of Europe where Western and Eastern values meet creates an ideal opportunity for business development.

Below are some of the key benefits of doing business in Poland.

Krakow Ireneusz Wojtowicz i Benefits of Doing Business in Poland

© istockphoto/Ireneusz Wojtowicz

 

Strategic Geographical Location
The strategic geographical location of Poland has played an important role in its development. Located on the crossroads between Eastern and Western Europe, Poland is a link between West and East and offers the large market of Central Europe for trade and transport. Sharing borders with Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Lithuania, Belarus, the Ukraine and Russia provides wide trade opportunities. Also, Poland’s ports and over 400km of coastline enhance its trading opportunities. As a member of the EU, Poland also benefits from a free flow of goods and services.

Access to Developing Economy
Poland stands out as a success story among transition economies since its liberalisation in 1990, and today it has one of the most successful and fast-growing economies in Central Europe. Its transformation to a democratic, market-oriented country raised Poland’s profile on the international stage. Polish potential was also recognised by the European Union which was generous in funding development, and this in turn attracted foreign investment. Poland is also a leader in Central Europe in foreign direct investment with an inflow of 14 billion dollars (2006, Polish Information and Foreign Investment Agency). Poland’s future looks very promising thanks to the flow of foreign capital into its economy.

State Tax Incentives and Government Support
The Polish government is in favour of foreign investments and has introduced business-friendly reforms to lower taxes. Government incentives depend on the costs of the investment and job creation, as well as the outcomes of negotiations with authorities. They are composed of three types of public aid: regional, horizontal and sectoral. Incentives also include various types of grants and can be combined with tax exemptions and loans. Foreign investors in Poland gain access not only to the Polish market but also to the vast EU market. Investors doing business in Poland can take advantage of lower production costs as a new member in comparison to those which are longer established. Poland offers a large qualified workforce and its legal system is moving towards full harmonisation with Western standards.

Strong Relationships with Counterparts
Poland has a family-focused society and the Polish value close personal relationships. Due to Poland’s history of occupation, it is generally the case that outsiders must earn the trust of their Polish acquaintances before a close relationship forms. For this reason Polish people tend to adopt a fairly formal approach to begin with and it may take several meetings before any final decisions are made. However, Polish people appreciate the patience of their counterparts in establishing relationships and are very loyal to them once trust is established.

Understanding Polish business culture and social traditions is key to doing business in Poland effectively. Attending a Cultural Awareness Training Poland course such as Communicaid’s Doing Business in Poland will help individuals and organisations to maximise the benefits of their investments in this development-oriented country.

© Communicaid Group Ltd.2010

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Jun 01

Communicaid in the Press: Language Skills in the City

Cross Cultural Training, Cultural training for Relocation, Culture, Culture training for Business & Management, Culture training for Human Resources, Culture training for the Public sector, International Business English, Language Training, News about Communicaid 1 Comment »

In an article written for Complinet, Karen Higginbottom speaks to Communicaid and investigates the need for globalised financial firms to give their employees language training even if they are English native speakers. She discovered that even if English is the “official language” when it comes to business, an increasing number of firms are wishing to deliver language training courses to their employees.

Looking at the example of the City of London, the world’s most renowned financial place, the importance of language training is evident.

 

IMG 2040002 cora malinak 425x282 Communicaid in the Press: Language Skills in the City

© Cora Malinak

This trend of providing language training is easily understandable. As financial firms increasingly develop their activities overseas, they recognise the importance and value of having employees who can speak different languages. This is particularly true in markets where English is not widely spoken or used or when dealing with junior collaborators who have not mastered the use of English in a professional context.

Speaking another language will help to ensure the success of any global expansion or investment opportunity. Being able to speak the local language is also a good way to show commitment and a genuine will to work with foreign counterparts, even if they are able and willing to speak English. Demonstrating some interest in their mother tongue is a good way to build a fruitful working relationship.

The ability to speak other languages is prized by most companies and can also provide a boost to executives’ careers. Karen Higginbottom quotes a report from the Confederation of British Industry showing that language skills are an important factor for a third of employers when it comes to recruiting new employees. Being able to speak another language is also a plus for expatriation candidates as they will be perceived as more capable of assimilating to the culture of their host country if they know the language. This quick assimilation will help them to be more efficient and operational within their new working environment.

Finally, language training will also help people to understand how they speak their own language to foreign nationals which is also key. Reducing acronyms and being careful about the use of humour will make a huge difference for anyone doing business in the global marketplace.

Providing high quality and tailored training to global organisations and responding to their specific requirements in function of their size, area of expertise and working environment is key for a culture and communication skills consultancy like Communicaid. Language training courses like French Language Training Courses or Russian Language Training Courses can be tailored and adapted to suit any type of requirements, ensuring a maximum return on investment. Participating in a Communicaid language training course is the first step towards learning a language and ensuring you and your organisation make the most of international opportunities.

© Communicaid Group Ltd. 2010

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