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Global Networking Tips

Please note: This item is from our archives and was published in 2006. It is provided for historical reference. The content may be out of date and links may no longer function.

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Doing business in a foreign country can be tricky. One wrong move or mistranslation by you or your clients can poison vital relationships. Here are three points to remember:

1 | Know your business card etiquette. Exchanging business cards is an integral part of business relations in some cultures. For example, in Asia business cards are truly an extension of the individual and are treated with respect.

2 | Respect personal space. Americans typically engage in business conversations within a distance of 2 to 4 feet. In Southern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, plan to stand or sit closer. In Asia, take a step back.

3 | Beware of slang. A phrase that means one thing in the United States might have no meaning—or a very different meaning—to a businessperson from another country.

Source: BNI International.