Question

To be successful in doing business or investing in a foreign
country, should you be knowledgeable about that country’s
history and culture and learn that country’s language?
Illustrate with examples how history, culture and language
may affect your business dealings.

Answer 1

Hpw history, culture and language may affect your business dealings

The culture consists of of language, social institutions, religion, political systems economic systems, and philosophy, education, and symbols. Thus, it is important to consider the influences of culture on international business, these aspects must be taken into account, especially the impacts from history, language, religion, and social institution, which can reflect the attitudes, beliefs and habits of the society

In a globalized economy, cultural sensitivity is a major factor. It is vital to understand and know about cultural differences for succeeding in business. To know language nuances, etiquette and cultural time management differences are helpful to navigate several complex interactions. Misinterpreting the words or the cultural meaning associated with them can affect the entire interchange negatively; and this in turn may lead to be a deal-breaker.

When doing business with an affiliate from another nation, the cultural differences need to be considered which includes includes basic customs, gestures and mannerisms. For example, If a salesperson approaches a business meet with knowledge of a customer’s cultural background, then his body language, words, and actions may all be adapted to better suit those of the customers; and consequently will be better liked by the customer, and ultimately increasing the salesperson's opportunity to win the deal.

The history is a mirror of a society, which reflects the establishment and development about political and economic form of a country. Although in developing economics international brands have status value, however when countries develop, people tend to focus more on their historical national preferences. For example, in the early 1990s anything Western sold in Russia, however since 1996 global companies such Nestlé and Coca-Cola have been localizing their messages in Russia. When Russians have become more nationalistic, producers begun to make their products more relevant

In few countries, like the United States and Germany, it is common that people are more assertive or speak loudly or aggressive when sharing ideas or providing direction. In countries like Japan, people typically are more passive about sharing ideas and speak softly while making suggestions. Thus while interacting with people from different cultures it is important to speak in a neutral tone and making a conscious effort to be considerate of others' input, even if it is an approach to which you are not accustomed, can enhance the foster effective communication of business.