how can i make sure i am culturally sensitive to other cultures on business trips?

Question

I am doing a paper on cultural sensitivity on other cultures. I have been looking for answers but they are hard to find on this topic. where should i look? does anyone have any information on this topic?

Answer 1

Be observant and try to refrain from doing what you would consider as a friendly gesture here in the states (i.e. waving, shaking hands, and/or a hugging). For example, you are in India for a trip. Obviously, the people dress differently than we do in America, so instead of wearing shorts and a t-shirt. you should wear long pants and decent shirt. Also, the women in the eastern part of the world are considered to be second class citizens; thus, when asking a question or inquiring information, talk to the male companion instead of the female.

There are so many different cultures in the world, so one can never be able to research the cultural norms of a society. Even if you go out of your way to try to be sensitive, you are bound to be a bit insensitive in one way or another.

Answer 2

Try using different key words to Google this topic. I know there are firms who publish guidelines for business travelers going abroad to address exactly this question, but I don't know how to find them. Good luck - that's an interesting topic!

Answer 3

You will need to do some research on business etiquette for different countries. For example, in some you shake hands, in others you definitely do not.