Don't let this be the question you find yourself or anyone in your organization asking when working internationally or cross culturally.

All too often, our cross cultural learning occurs only after we have found ourselves unaware of something we should have known, or in the midst of a negatively charged situation that could have been avoided, as in the loss of business or personnel.

80% of U. S. business ventures overseas fail because Americans do not take cultural nuances into consideration. Our behavior at the onset of cross-cultural relationships will either foster respect or close the door.

Success in today's global market relies on an understanding of cultural differences and International Protocol. To be successful in today's world, one cannot afford to make the mistake of using an ill-placed phrase, deal with the consequences of a misunderstood gesture, or suffer from an uninformed judgment. Understanding, appreciating and maximizing the benefits of cultural differences are critical to achievement in the global marketplace.

When business meets culture, the questions we want to be asking, as well as finding answered in our behavior are:

Participants in this comprehensive series will: