How to Successfully Do Business Overseas

I used to work with Tom. Tom was promoted as our business development manager in charge of expanding our business in Africa. Tom had only operated in western countries and he was at ease with the western culture and its customs. For his first international business trip, he was sent to Nigeria to meet our current clients and new prospects. As we all know business development is not about selling but rather about building relationships to consequently offer services to fulfil the needs of your clients. Tom's first business lunch was with Franklin, the managing director of an international oil and gas firm. Franklin was used to working with Phil as our company representative, and this lunch was an opportunity to pass over the management of Franklin's account. It is customary with some countries to give to your client a traditional gift from your country, such as chocolate from Harrods or Scottish shortbread; anything that represents the British culture. These little details show that you care about the foundation of long-term business relationships. Unaware of this custom, Tom didn't bring anything to the lunch. To show his discontent, Franklin used Tom's business as a toothpick. This was so embarrassing. The business relationship was damaged and it took a while to reposition it back to where it was previously. I have travelled across the world during my international career. I studied cross cultural differences with fascination and I learned a great deal through my business experience. I have seen managers failing to sign deals just based on their lack of cultural awareness. In my previous business article, I taught the importance of personal branding. In this article, I will reveal to you a few tips you need to know to break challenging markets such as Asia. 1 - Dress for Business Professionalism begins with your brand persona. So always dress professionally to make a positive impact and satisfactory business impression. Acknowledging cultural differences whilst looking and acting prepared will always be received positively and will help you seal the deal. Take the time to study the cultural norms of the country that you are doing business in, and find out how they dress. A particular flower for example, may be acceptable in your country, but in another country, it could be used for mourning which would be totally unacceptable in a business situation. Attention to detail is essential and will help you to avoid causing any upset. 2 - Time Punctuality is also valued differently, so be aware that some cultures are more time conscious than others. In South America and Africa, scheduled appointments are considered as a time guideline rather than something they need to stick by. In Europe, they are always punctual and being late is perceived as unprofessional. Take this into consideration and consequently allow your schedule some time flexibility. 3 - Greeting In western countries, a hand shake is the commonly accepted form of greeting. In Saudi Arabia, women should wait for a man to offer his hand first. If she offers her hand first, he may not shake it. So save yourself the embarrassment. In Japan, people bow to greet each other. In Italy and Egypt, don't be surprised if your client or partner offers a kiss on the cheek. The best way to start on a good note is to offer a traditional present from your country. This is not bribery but rather a good gesture. However in Asia, this might be perceived as bribery and they are quiet likely to refuse your present. Always address and greet your business partners or your clients by their last names and titles unless you are invited to do otherwise. 4 - Communication Business people in different countries communicate differently. In Nigeria or Germany, people tend to speak loudly when sharing ideas. In Ghana or Japan, they speak softly and don't interrupt each other. Don't forget to watch your body language when interacting as it could be distracting in countries that are not accommodated to so much body movements to emphasise an idea. To conclude, always do your research when working in business and in markets that you are not familiar with. Ask advice from colleagues who have experienced working with certain countries. Their knowledge and experience are great values for your own success. Observe and adjust to the ways that your clients or business partners communicate. The more information you know, the more you are in control and capable of signing the deal.

The Importance of Wisely Choosing an Airport Transfer Service

You have been travelling around the world for months, and now you are on your way back home. You have landed at the airport and collected your luggage. You are mentally and physically tired, and the long wait for your chauffeur at the terminal is only going to frustrate you more. You keep on looking at your phone to see if there are any missed calls or messages by chauffeur service provider, to inform you that there will be a delay in picking you up from the airport. After waiting for an hour, you hire a taxi from the airport, and rush back home. As soon as you reach home, you get a call from the chauffeur that the cab is waiting at the airport. Such things happen with people quite often. Thus, you need to avoid making some common mistakes while hiring an airport transportation service. Mistakes made while hiring airport transportation services: Not booking chauffeur service in advance: Not booking chauffeur service in advance could get in trouble. There are chances of not finding cabs in the peak hours, and you will have no choice but travel on your own. Not to forget the luggage that you will have to pull with you. Booking with unreliable service providers: Before making your bookings online, try to research a bit about the company, and then make an informed choice. Make sure that you book your cabs only with the companies that are known for their professionalism. You wouldn't want any hassles in the last part of your travel. Tips for choosing airport transfer service Choose a company that you are already familiar with. If you don't know any reliable car rental company, then check on the net for reviews. Select companies having online booking system, so that you can book your travel anytime from anywhere. Before booking your ride online, don't forget to read the company's customer feedbacks. Go with a company using modern technologies such as proper navigation and traffic notification system. Try to learn about the quality of vehicles used by the company. You can also choose vehicles with various luxury features for a more comfortable ride. Lastly, don't forget to check original car and driving license documents, before sitting in your airport ride. Services provided by reputed airport transportation companies Professional drivers: Reputed limo companies hire only educated and experienced drivers. Their drivers will know all the routes very well, and they also know which routes can be taken to avoid rush hour traffic and bad roads. Pollution and traffic are the major problem everyone faces while travelling, but these professional drivers choose the shortest possible routes to drive you to your destination on time. Personalized service: Companies always try to develop long term business relationships with their customers, which is why they provide personalized services. Their drivers are well mannered, and they drive their passengers across the city with all due courteousness. They also help customers with their luggage.