We are living in a time where trade is becoming more global by the day. With the globalization of trade, conducting business on a global basis requires a good understanding of various cultures. What works in one country might not work in another...in fact, it might be interpreted as an offense. For example, the okay sign in the United States is a very offense gesture in Germany, yet in Japan it refers to money and in France to signify zero.

Finally, a pivotal role of a manager is to understand, or be aware, of cultural issues in the country you are operating out of. In this activity, you will have a chance to discuss specifically an international culture and its impact on business.

For this discussion activity, respond to the following prompts:

Choose a country you are unfamiliar with, and research its specific culture. AUSTRALIA or THAILAND

What specific business practices would you expect to find in that country, based on its culture?

What expectations "culture-wise" would you have if you were to open a business in that country?

Are there any specific cultural items of concern that you would report back to your organizational leadership? What are they? Please explain.

In response to your colleagues, discuss why one would benefit by studying a countries culture that a business is operating from.
Things to Remember!

Post a 2 to 4 paragraph discussion post (300 words minimum). Justify your explanations by including in-text citations and your references in APA format as applicable.

Post your primary response on the discussion board. Be sure to review your writing for grammar and spelling before posting. Read any postings already provided by your instructor or fellow students.

Read and respond to your classmates. Remember to read the feedback to your own major postings and reply to it throughout the module.

Use the EC Library resources to properly cite your work: APA Format Tip Sheet