Scenario

You are a procurement manager working on training a new sourcing

analyst. As part of their training, they will be traveling with you to meet

with new and existing suppliers for specialized parts your company needs.

This will allow your colleague first-hand experience and help them develop

relationships with the business professionals they will be working with in

the future.

You need to make sure that they are familiar with cultural business

practices for the places you will be visiting so that existing business

relationships remain strong and new relationships start off well. You have

decided to create a brief guide that includes the cultural considerations

they will need to be aware of while doing business.

Prompt

Use the Module Two Assignment Template Word Document to create a

guide that provides a brief overview of culturally considerate business

practices for three countries of your choosing that are outside of the

United States. Use course and external resources (such as the Shapiro

Library) to gather information on your selected countries and their

cultural business practices.

Specifically, you must address the following rubric criteria:

 Authority Figures: Describe how figures of authority are treated

and shown respect in each selected country, as well as actions or

communications that may cause unintended offense.

 

 Levels of Formality: Describe the level of formality that business

professionals follow in each selected country. Examples are things

like language, dress, or etiquette.

 Social Norms: Identify common social norms that should be used in

business in each selected country, as well as hand gestures and

body language that should be avoided or that may cause

unintended offense.

 Time and Scheduling: Describe how the concepts of time and

scheduling are treated in each selected country, as well as

considerations for business-meeting etiquette that should be

considered to avoid causing unintended offense.

 Business Practices: Describe general business practices that should

be taken into consideration when conducting business in the

selected countries. Examples include meals, cultural holidays and

events, and the use of formal contracts.

What to Submit

Submit the Module Two Assignment Template to complete this

assignment. Use bullet points when completing the template. Sources

should be cited according to APA style.

 

As you embark on your journey to meet with suppliers in different

countries, it's essential to be aware of the cultural nuances that can

significantly impact business relationships. Understanding and respecting

these cultural considerations will help you establish strong connections

and ensure successful interactions with your international counterparts.

Here's a brief guide to cultural business practices in each selected country:

 

Country 1: Japan

 

Authority Figures: In Japan, authority figures are shown utmost respect.

Use honorific titles (e.g., "san") when addressing individuals. Bowing is a

common form of greeting, with the depth of the bow indicating respect.

Avoid interrupting or contradicting superiors, as it may be considered

disrespectful.

 

Levels of Formality: Business professionals in Japan follow a high level of

formality. Dress conservatively in dark suits and use formal language.

Handshakes are common, but not as firm as in Western cultures.

 

Social Norms: Punctuality is crucial in Japan. Arriving late to a meeting is

disrespectful. Avoid pointing, as it can be considered impolite. Direct eye

contact may be less frequent than in Western cultures.

 

Time and Scheduling: Time is highly valued in Japan. Always arrive on time

for meetings. Exchange business cards (meishi) using both hands and a

slight bow. Respectful silence is common during conversations, as it shows

contemplation.

 

Business Practices: Meals are often a part of business discussions. Wait for

the host to start eating before you do. Be mindful of cultural holidays and

 

events, such as Golden Week and New Year. Contracts are formal and

often require thorough review.

 

Country 2: Germany

 

Authority Figures: Authority figures are treated professionally and

respectfully in Germany. Handshakes are common, and addressing

individuals by their last names is appropriate. Direct communication is

valued, but avoid interrupting.

 

Levels of Formality: German business attire is typically formal. Dress

neatly and conservatively. Language is generally formal but becomes less

so with familiarity.

 

Social Norms: Punctuality is crucial in Germany. Arriving late to meetings

is considered disrespectful. Maintain direct eye contact during

conversations, as it's a sign of honesty and engagement.

 

Time and Scheduling: Germans are known for their efficiency and

adherence to schedules. Meetings are well-organized and to the point. Be

prepared and on time. Business cards are exchanged with a brief

introduction.

 

Business Practices: Meals are generally business-focused, with discussions

continuing during meals. Respect public holidays and weekends, as

business activity may be limited. Contracts are legally binding and

expected to be followed.

 

Country 3: Brazil

 

Authority Figures: Authority figures in Brazil are treated with respect, but

interpersonal relationships play a significant role. Addressing individuals

by their first names is common. Handshakes are firm and accompanied by

direct eye contact.

 

Levels of Formality: Brazilian business attire is often more relaxed due to

the climate. Language is generally friendly and informal. Hugging and

touching during greetings are common.

 

Social Norms: Brazilians are known for their warm and friendly nature.

Personal connections are important, so building relationships is crucial.

Avoid negative body language or crossing arms, as it can be seen as

defensive.

 

Time and Scheduling: Punctuality is somewhat flexible in Brazil, but

business professionals from other cultures should aim to be on time.

Meetings may start with small talk before getting down to business.

 

Business Practices: Meals are social occasions and may involve extensive

conversations. Be aware of local holidays, such as Carnival. Contracts are

important, but personal relationships can influence business decisions.

 

Remember that cultural sensitivity and adaptability are key in

international business interactions. By understanding and respecting

cultural differences, you'll be well-equipped to establish meaningful

connections with suppliers, build trust, and foster successful partnerships