Tools for Conducting International Business

Conducting international business is an art. Understanding the customs and cultures of other countries is not something you typically know off the top of your head; never mind learning several new languages just to communicate with clients and colleagues. So, how is it possible to successfully conduct business in foreign countries when you don't have decades of experience? It just takes a little practice and a few hints and resources.

Customs and Cultures

Perhaps you'll be visiting different countries and meeting with different people. Each country has a different culture that has been built on eons of tradition. It's important to learn these customs in order to ensure your professionalism and diplomacy. While it's expensive and time consuming to purchase travel books for each of these countries, there's a much easier way to research these traditions. Cyborlink.com is the web's leading resource for international business etiquette and manners. Their site allows you to choose the country you're planning to visit and gives you essential information like accepted behaviors, time honored customs, and government resources.

Currency

Converting your currency might not seem like a priority in conducting business abroad, but really it is. There are often monetary transactions made in international business and it's important to know your official currency and theirs as well as conversion rates for each. No need to fret though, it's as simple as visiting a website. Oanda.com can convert 164 currencies, making it a breeze for you and your clients. This site proves helpful even if you're just curious as to what the currency is for the country you're visiting.

Translation

It would be ideal to be fluent in each official language of each country you intend to visit, but it's highly unlikely. Luckily, there are electronic translators as well as translators of the human variety. Typically, a handheld electronic translator will be cheaper than an actual person translating, but you must understand that there is a large difference between the two.

First, if using a human translator, you will have to bring that person with you to whatever country you visit. You will also likely have to pay for their daily expenses as well as an hourly rate imposed by the company they offer their services through. However, the quality will be much greater than that of an electronic translator.

For most of us, the electronic translator will be the only option. If that is the case, I can recommend a great one to use. For about $200 you can purchase the Lingo Voyager III which translates 20 languages including Spanish, German, Italian, Chinese and Japanese just to name a few. The portable device spells the phrase you are looking to translate and sounds it out for you, so no more guessing how to pronounce certain words.

Be sure to weigh the cost of professional translator services against the importance of your travel to determine which type of translator is best suited for your trip.

International business travel takes skill, but it's nothing that can't be learned and prepared for. Research each country to ensure you're following customs and etiquette. Use these resources to portray yourself and your business in the positive light it deserves. Enjoy your trip.