A Short Course in International Business Culture

In this summary you will learn

• Why you should learn all you can about the etiquette of another culture before your business trip
• How nonverbal gestures speak volumes
• On what four dimensions cultures differ

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Why you should read A Short Course in International Business Culture

Charles Mitchell’s book offers an excellent introduction to the differences in attitudes, values, protocol, rituals, traditions, communication styles and other characteristics that commonly separate cultures. He distinguishes people’s basic cultural traits from different national groups, while noting regional and individual variations, too. Mitchell cites examples from many major nations, including the U.S., Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Nigeria, Israel, Australia, China, Japan, Russia, Vietnam and India, and from Hispanic and Arabic cultures. The book is clearly written and well organized, with tips on giving gifts, negotiating, handling verbal and non-verbal communications, holding meetings and conducting business in general. getAbstract says tuck this into your carry-on bag - the farther you’re going, the more you’ll need it.

About the Author

Charles Mitchell has worked as a foreign correspondent for U.S. and European news services, newspapers and magazines for more than 20 years, reporting from some 45 countries on four continents. He is the Director of Publishing for The Conference Board, a non-profit business and economic research organization that tries to enhance business’s contribution to society.