International Business: The New Realities, 5th Edition

How to Acquire Cross-Cultural Competence

Managers are more effective in cross-cultural encounters when they keep an open mind, are inquisitive, and don’t jump to conclusions about others’ behaviors. Even experienced managers undergo cultural training that emphasizes people-watching skills and human relations techniques. Skills are more important than pure information because skills can be transferred across countries, whereas information is often country-specific. Planning that combines informal mentoring from experienced managers and formal training through seminars, courses, and simulations abroad and at home can go far in helping managers meet cross-cultural challenges.

Although every culture is unique, certain basic guidelines are appropriate ...