Negotiation is an essential part of an effective business strategy. Key business decisions may either come to fruition or fall apart, depending on how successfully you negotiate a deal. Show
When negotiating internationally, cultural differences can make the process even more challenging. You want to ensure that your goals are met, but at the same time, you want to respect others’ cultural norms and cultural values. As you begin preparations for an intercultural negotiation, here’s what you need to know to make the interaction as successful as possible: You Can Overcome the Language Barrier with InterpretersFor most people, the language barrier can be the most intimidating cultural difference – after all, if you can’t have clear communication with each other, how can you even begin a discussion? Cross cultural communication is important. Therefore, some people choose to use an interpreter so the focus stays on the deal at hand, and not the semantics of language. This also ensures that no caveat, addendum or important detail is lost in translation. Just keep in mind:
An interpreter may not be appropriate for all situations. Although you may feel like the hire is a further effort in due diligence, it could be viewed as impersonal in a different culture. Know that you may be able to successfully navigate the conversation with little knowledge of the language by remembering these guidelines:
Above all, don’t use words to impress. You may pick up a few words or phrases of the negotiators’ native language, but don’t throw them in the discussion haphazardly to show that you know something of their culture. This could inadvertently offend someone, and moreover, you could look like you’re trying too hard to make a good impression. Know the Cultural Differences Among Business StandardsThe way we do business in America is not necessarily how business is done in Spain, Turkey or Nigeria. Every culture abides by its own set of business standards and it’s important to be aware of the different ways each country does business before you even set foot in the boardroom. You must develop international business skills to succeed in global settings:
Walk into the meeting with open eyes and take the time to observe the other negotiators. Follow their lead and be open to adapting your style to theirs when necessary. Be open to other communication styles as it will help build a relationship between you and another culture. Do Your Homework Ahead of the Cross Cultural NegotiationRespect and courtesy are valued by all people, regardless of culture, and the best sign of respect is to show that you’ve done your homework. It may be a process, but before you meet with a group of Chinese investors, or before you fly to Dubai for a make-or-break meeting, conduct research on their cultures. Find out what body language, hand gestures, and greetings are considered impolite or inappropriate, and conversely, find out what is acceptable and appreciated. Search for the appropriate cultural negotiating methods and business standards. Actions speak louder than words, and just by showing that you are well informed of cultural norms, you can speak volumes. If you’re ready to learn even more about business negotiation, consider earning an Online MBA from SMU Cox School of Business. You’ll gain the interpersonal, communication and business skills necessary for a successful career in the world of business. To learn more, call admissions at 214-842-6486 or request more information. What are the factors to consider in crossTo maximize the chances of success in the cross-cultural setting, one should consider a number of factors, including:. Etiquette/Protocol Issues. ... . Body Language Issues. ... . Language Issues. ... . Relationship Issues. ... . Timing Issues. ... . Trust and Information Issues. ... . Legal Issues. ... . Authority Issues.. What is the most important thing to remember when negotiating?For every negotiation, you need to determine the worst deal you'd accept. Say you are negotiating the price of a car, for example. Perhaps the worst deal you'd take is $20,000 – you will not pay more than that for the car no matter what. You also need to determine what you'll do if you don't make the deal.
What are the major factors that affect cross cultural communication?Six key barriers for cross-cultural communications. 1- Ethnocentrism. We all have a natural tendency to look at other cultures through our own lenses. ... . 2- Stereotyping. ... . 3- Psychological barriers. ... . 4- Language barriers. ... . 5- Geographical distance. ... . 6- Conflicting values.. What are the key characteristics of a successful crossThe more fluent each party was in the language of the other, the more likely they were to be able to pick up on cultural behaviours and to make adjustments.. He comes from an individualistic culture.. He is secure in his job.. He is in a superior power position.. |