GLOBAL BEHAVIOR

Here are some tips you can use to increase your skills in building international relationships:

• Be observant and ask questions

• Think before you speak

• Develop a “local friend” that you trust to advise you on customs and behavior

• Keep an open mind

• Be available to assist

• Respect the culture and appreciate the differences

• Be knowledgeable of world events

• Notice non-verbal cues

• Acquaint yourself with different eating habits and foods

• Learn a few foreign phrases

• Use surnames and professional titles

• Have business cards prepared in both languages and present the proper side for easy reading

• Give appropriate gifts

• Try local delicacies before saying no

• Learn the appropriate greetings

• Be patient and calm

• Avoid making gestures that might be deemed offensive

• Expect the unexpected