Business Across Borders Essay

In the billet world at present, borders argon blending and multi-national mergers ar causing many confederacy nationalities to become indistinct. As the globalization of markets rapidly increases, many companies are decision international expansion a necessity of competition. North America is greatly affected by this movement towards a global market, and many companies are attaining it extremely in-chief(postnominal) to adapt to new(prenominal) cultures.Favorable tack agreements and explosive growth of the middle class in countries once considered expatiateing have twain been heavy factors in the rush towards globalization. However, the most primary(prenominal) factor in increased globalization has been technological advancements, including new expatriation and information technologies. Presentation of information is more frequently processed by members of a virtual team a work group non necessarily in the same geographical location. With the proliferation of e-mail, videoconferencing, fax machine, and the teleph angiotensin converting enzyme, virtual teaming is bonny increasingly efficient.The most considerable obstructions to successful international marketing hold misinterpretations and contrary views resulting from ethnic differences. Being both cognizant of some of these issues and nimble to apply the necessary accommodations can save companies cartridge clip, effort, and a considerable get along of m unrivalledy.Exploring ContextContext is described as the most central property of culture and yet is the most tall(prenominal) to define. Context refers to the stimuli, environment, or atmosphere surrounding an event. Communication styles and vocation practices as a whole are often identified with the context of a country.North American, Scandinavian, and German communicators are generally considered to be low-context cultures. They expect a high level of expand in their visua,l verbal and written discourse. Low-context cultures tend tobe analytical, logical and find words and contracts very important. Individualism, freedom and ad hominem achievement are passing valued by these cultures.High-context cultures, such as Japan, China, Arabia, tend to assume the recipient does non need much background. Information and words are not as important as what is surrounding the situation. They are more apprised of a communicators status, interpersonal relationships, the setting, and ambiance when conducting transmission line relations. In general, usage and social customs are more important in high-context cultures. These cultures show membership in organizations and groups. Because they avoid confrontation, they frown upon individual decision fashioning and prefer consensus.RelationshipsIn many countries personal relationships are the key to success. It is important to not expect to get down to business right away, exactly rather get to know a person first. In Mexico, for example, business deals are only ma de with friends, so wiz must develop a friendship with any business partner. It is considered polite to ask personal questions about family, and also to answer any questions about your family. Discussions are affectionate and friendly.In Japan it is unlikely to get very far without connections. cautiously chosen intermediaries are a necessity. Not only go forth the Nipponese feel obliged to be loyal to them, but rank of ones associates will catch out their status as well. A Japanese businessman will always consult within his group in the beginning making a decision. Because of their intense loyalty, ones identity is subsumed into the group. It is important to never single out a Japanese counterpart, even for value or encouragement. Contrarily, the Spaniards have a hierarchy style of management and it is outgo to deal with el jefe or el pardon-the one who will be making the decision. Spaniards also will expect whomever they are transaction with to have decisions-making authorit y.Saving FaceWhen dealing with Spain or most Asian cultures, it is also critical to understand the concept of saving front. any loss of control of emotions or embarrassment is considered disastrous in business negotiations in these cultures. Honor and personal pride mean everything and they must not be insulted. Because of this attitude it is very important to carefully prepare presentations so that they are easy for the audience to understand. Paying close attendance to determine if anything is misunderstood during the presentation is also a must. Because of this concept of saving face the presenter will not know if they are having difficulties. Close attention must be paid to conversations in order to discern the distressfulness of what is being said. In Japan, a deal is never refused directly, and any traffic with Japanese business culture should remain indirect. business organization CardsIn nearly all countries, it is important that business cards be printed one side in En glish, and the other in their language. When presenting the card, it should be presented with their language lining the recipient. In Japan, the exchange of business cards is not to be interpreted lightly. When you receive the card of a Japanese businessman, be sure to make a show of examining it carefully and then making a respect about the card. Ask any questions about anything on the card which is difficult to pronounce or understand. The card should then be placed in a case or on a near by table. A card shouldnt be shoved into a pocket or be written on.Concepts of TimeTime orientation is an important cultural difference that Americans must pay close attention to. In America, fourth dimension is viewed as a precious commodity. Time is related with productivity, efficiency, and money. Many other countries have a much more relaxed perception of time. They take their time, and esteem it. In Mexico you can ask if a schedule appointment is en punto (the precise time), or mas o men os. Mas o menos appointments are often scheduled a half an hour to an hour before the actual time. With bothMexican and Japanese cultures it is also important not to expect newsbreak results. Plenty of time should be allowed for contemplation and decision making. In Mexico it is important to adjust any expectations regarding deadlines and efficiency.ConclusionDoing business over borders and through time zones has become commonplace in the twenty-first century. Technological advancements in communication and travel make it possible to do business across the human race almost instantaneously. Doing business with multiple cultures can be a gainsay venture. International communication skills of an organization can determine success or failure.In order to interact with different cultures, it is necessary to understand the prefatory characteristics of the culture. This type of understanding helps to make adjustments and accommodations. We must rid our minds of pre-conceived notions, s tereotypes, and prejudices. It is imperative that one be knowledgeable about such topics as context, traditions, social rules, etcetera It is equally important to possess competent listening skills and to be aware of ones own nonverbal messages.The ability to adapt to an intercultural military position is probably one of the most crucial aspects of doing business in todays global village.BibliographySellin, Robert H. J and Elaine Winters. Cultural Issues in Business Communication. Berkeley Program Facilitating and Consulting, 2000.Guffey, Mary Ellen. Business Communication Process and Product, 4th ed. Mason, Ohio South-Western, 2003Etiquette and topical anesthetic Customs. The Travelers Yellow Pages Online. http//www.infoservices.com/stpete/342.htm. InfoServices International,Inc., 2002What to Know Before Negotiting Execitive Planet.com. http//www.executiveplanet.com/business-culture.html.