4 Tips for Success in the Global Workplace

As technology makes our world a smaller place many businesses big and small are engaging in commerce across international borders. The definition of workplace has now expanded to include not just new cities or regions but the whole world, we are indeed witnessing life in the global workplace.

Conducting business on an international level isn’t always easy  as social norms, greetings and introductions and even time restraints differ across cultures. Here are our tips for success in the global workplace.

1. Have an open mind
Being open minded makes the transition from national to international easier as you will be more willing to learn about new countries, their customs, and the way they do business. Things may not always go as planned and tasks that used to be simple before may become more complicated and tedious. Obstacles be they cultural, financial or logistical will arise and you need to be able to think outside the box and get creative.

2. Welcome and embrace change
Making changes to the way you do business, approach projects, and even shake hands is inevitable when working in a global workplace. Change is never easy but being ready for the change and approaching it with a positive attitude certainly makes the transition run smoother. Don’t shy away or be afraid of changing the way you do business, different markets demand different approaches. Chances are you will have a completely different business model or approach for each new market you enter. Think of each new culture, country, or market as a creative outlet, an opportunity to do your job in the different way. The result or product is the same but the method is different.

3. Do your prep work
Preparation and research are essential when working on a global level. You need to be aware of the cultural and social norms of the countries you are doing business in.  There are many sources online that allow you do conduct a cultural comparison between countries. It’s a good idea to compare the country you live in with the countries you wish to enter or are looking to do business with.  The World Factbook is an online tool that provides comprehensive and detailed information about countries, however it focuses more on general information rather than cultural comparisons. To compare cultural differences, we recommend using the The Hofstede Center website as it allows you to compare and contrast cultures using 5 detailed dimensions.  In addition to cultural research you should attempt to learn a few basic words in the native language such as hello, thank you, and please.

4. Seek out local mentors
Locals are the best guides when it comes to learning about a new culture and market.  Seeking out a local professional who can help you learn about the business culture in your prospective market is a good idea, as you will be able to get a first hand account of what corporate life is like.  You can reach out to professionals in your field or similar fields through organizations advocating for trade between your home country and your perspective market. LinkedIn is also a good way of researching professionals in your field, however since these would be cold connections asking for mentorship is not recommended. You can also ask for guidance and information about perspective markets from their local embassies in your home base. Most embassies have trade commissioners that provide information on conducting business in their country.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

Bringing Civility to the Friendly Skies : 15 Airplane Etiquette Tips

Since the invention of the “flying machine” in the early 20^th century air travel has advanced considerably with new models from Boeing and Airbus gracing the skies.

Flying used to be regarded as a prestigious and glamorous activity with in fight lounges, card tables, and sleeping births even in economy class. Today much of the glamour and hype has been taken out of flying and it is regarded merely as a  rapid means of transportation to get from point A to point B, this is especially true for business travelers. Although the glamor and prestige may be gone we still believe that civility must be preserved in the friendly skies. Here’s our look at 15 airplane etiquette tips

1. Stay out of the aisle
When walking to your seat carry your cabin baggage in front of you and low to the ground so as not to obstruct other passengers, and avoid chatting in the aisles.
 

 2. Keep your seat upright for meals
Reclining seats are great but don’t leave your seat on full recline mode for the entire flight. Reclining your seat takes away from the leg room and dining tray space of the passenger behind you so be considerate and straighten your seat back for meals. Wait for the passenger behind you to finish his/her meal before reclining again.

3. Stuck in the middle with two armrests
No one likes to be stuck in the middle; you can’t look out the window and you can’t exit your seat freely. As a consolation the middle passenger gets both arm rests.

4. Get over body odour
Proper hygiene is essential when flying as passenger are packed in to an enclosed space with recycled air for extended periods of time. Using deodorant and showering at airports or lounges (if you can )is highly recommended to avoid offensive and embarrassing body odour. Avoid using strong perfumes and colognes and opt for a lightly scented body spray or unscented products.

5. Don’t hog the overhead compartment
Storage space on airplanes is limited so use the overhead compartment above your seat row. Do not spread your luggage out among multiple compartments unless advised by a flight attendant.

6. Bring motion sickness medication
Motion sickness consists of various symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or sweating. Sitting next to an airsick person on a flight is not pleasant so be considerate and take precautions/medications to prevent motion sickness ahead of time.

 7. Know your limit, drink within it
Alcohol is often free on long haul flights so it may be tempting to over indulge. Dealing with drunk passengers is unpleasant for the flight crew or fellow travelers so stay sober in the air. Obnoxious or foul behavior could also result in heavy penalties and offloading so it’s best to stick to just 2 drinks on long haul flights and avoid hard liquor.

 8. Mind your children
Noisy kids are rated as one of the most annoying in flight pet peeves. If you are traveling with children monitor their behavior to ensure they are quiet and not disturbing other passengers. If you are a parent your children are your responsibility even in the air!

9. Cut the chit chat
Do not attempt to start up a conversation with the passenger next to you. A little bit of small talk and exchange of pleasantries is alright but do not tell them your life story.

10. No litter or loitering in the loo
Airplane toilets are small, full of germs, and often cater to many rows of passengers. Be considerate of others when using the toilet; clean up after yourself and don’t take all day.

11.  Use a gentle touch
Many aircraft come equipped with built in entertainment systems containing touch screens installed in the seat in front of you. Exercise caution when using the touch screen  as you don’t want to keep poking the passenger in front of you every time you change TV channels.

12. Keep the window blinds closed when cabin lights are dimmed for designated “sleep time”
During long haul or red eye flights  cabin lights are dimmed to allow passengers to rest; this is designated “sleep time” Keeping your window blind shut during this time is recommended as you may be flying in to a sunrise.  Waking up to a bright sunrise after a red eye flight is not something most people look forward to so we advise keeping the blind closed until the cabin lights are brightened again for breakfast service.

13. Earplugs please!!  Control your snoring
Snoring is a common problem encountered on airplanes. If you are a snorer consider using a nasal strip such as breathe right to improve or alleviate your condition.  Being kept awake by a snoring passenger is extremely annoying for fellow travelers; by snoring loudly you are indicating to them that you have the right to sleep but they don’t!

14. Don’t ask other passengers to watch your belongings
You may think it’s common to ask someone to watch your purse or bag while you use the washroom but this practice can be dangerous. You risk being robbed or framed.  Your fellow passengers are not obligated to look after your things. If you bring it on the plane it’s your responsibility so do not ask others to watch your luggage.

15. Immigration cards should be filled out alone
Immigration and landing cards contain important personal information never ask another passenger to help you fill out your card. If you have questions regarding the immigration card or how to fill it out ask a member of the cabin crew. Similarly if someone asks you to help them with their card simply direct them to a crew member who will be better equipped to answer their questions. You cannot be liable for others or their information and vice versa.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

Doing Business in South Asia

South Asia is home to world’s largest democracy, some of the fastest growing economies and booming stock markets. Traveling within the region is definitely exciting, especially for those from North America who are well acquainted with vast uninhabited spaces; the network of congested roads and buildings can be overwhelming.

South Asia is is not only a hub for history and cultural diversity, but a force to reckon with, when it comes to global business. In fact many companies from North America have outsourced some of their services to take advantage of time differences in order to offer 24 h service to clients, and reap the benefits of cheaper labor costs.  In the years following the post colonization era foreign investment in South Asia still continued, and although there was a decrease in foreign direct investment in 2012 companies still continue to look favorably upon the region for investment opportunities. South Asia remains a lucrative market and it is always advantageous to be better acquainted with the cultural and social aspects of conducting business in the region.

Our experience in conducting business in South Asia coupled with our knowledge of the cultures prevalent in the region, has provided us with insight in to the business etiquette and protocol used within South Asia. Here are a few business etiquette tips for doing business in South Asia:

1. Time isn’t always money
Don’t expect your 9 a.m. meeting to start on time. Your South Asian counterparts may arrive as late as 9.45 and will not be concerned that they are not on time. This can be frustrating to business associates from North America where punctuality is essential and it is considered rude to be late for a business meeting.

2. There is never a direct No
South Asian society is very polite and its best to avoid using the word “No” during business dealings. “We’ll see”, “Possibly”, “May be” are phrases that can replace the word “No”.

3. Refrain from ordering beef
Opt not to order beef at business meetings as cows are considered sacred in India, which is the largest country in the South Asian continent.

4. Quit your wine-ing
It’s best to limit alcohol to just one glass or none at all as some of the South Asian countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh  are prominently Muslim and alcohol is not permitted.

5. Take my card
Business cards play an important part in conducting business in the region. Business cards are  presented with both hands, like a gift. Take a few minutes to read and look over the card. Do not just put it away or keep it lying around. After taking a good look at it, put it away in a safe place.

6. Titles matter
At business meetings, stick to the hierarchical structure. Credentials and titles matter in South Asia.

7. Religious celebrations are often national holidays
Prior to meeting business colleagues, ensure that you are aware of any religious holidays as most religious festivals are marked by a national holiday. For example, Sri Lanka celebrates the festivals of four religions, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam.

8. Guess who’s coming to dinner
If invited to a colleague’s residence, do not refuse trying out any food that is offered to you. If you do refuse it, it will be taken as an insult. It’s best to at least taste it out of respect for the host.

9. Do not open
If you receive a gift from a business colleague, do not open it in the presence of the one who gave it to you.

10. Suit up
Men are generally expected to wear a suit and women are expected to be modestly dressed in a business suit or pant suit.

11. Let’s do lunch
Do not expect to seal the deal at the very first meeting. Building a relationship matters most in this part of the world and the business deal would follow after the relationship is established.

12. It’s not what you know it’s who you know
Knowing people of influence goes a long way in any business relationship in this part of the world. You will be treated differently if you’re known to someone who is higher up in the corporate structure.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

6 Introduction Mistakes To Avoid

Introducing yourself and others to key contacts is essential for building business relationships and networking effectively. However there are pitfalls that many professionals can avoid when making introductions.

Here’s a look at 6 introduction mistakes to avoid. This information comes straight from our program How to be a Polite Professional

 1. Looking away: Looking away when you are being introduced to someone gives off the impression that you are disinterested and don’t care about who you are meeting. Always maintain eye contact when being introduced

 2. Making overly personal comments: When introducing someone to a group you should give a piece of information about them. Avoid alluding to divorce, job loss, illness or any sensitive topic. Instead stick to their job title, where they work or what field they’re in. You can even indicate how you met them.

3. Interrupting: Don’t break in to a conversation or simply force yourself into one. Wait until you are introduced to the group or brought in to the conversation.

4. Deferring to one person: Avoid speaking only to one person and ignoring the others in the group. This behaviour is especially prevalent in groups of 3, and makes the person being ignored feel awkward. Make sure you engage with everyone in your group and at least make eye contact and acknowledge people you are not immediately speaking to.

5. Overly enthusiastic introductions: It’s always nice to highlight something positive about the person you are introducing but keep it within reason. Don’t introduce colleagues or clients with superfluous introductions as these tend to embarrass people. Avoid using phrases such as “the smartest person at our firm” “the greatest” “ the most accomplished”  “ the most amazing” etc. These come off as unprofessional and a little immature.

6. Making someone wait to be introduced: Introduce any newcomers to the group immediately, making people wait causes them to feel left out, embarrassed and awkward.

Copyright © 2013 by Professional Edge Consulting

Seven rules for effective networking

Networking is one of the most important tools professionals can use to increase their reach within the corporate community. According to a researchers at Harvard Business School 65-80% of positions are filled through networking alone, and many of these positions are not made public.

Recognizing the need and importance of networking in today's work environment, PEC just wrapped up a workshop on networking entitled Cocktails & Conversations. Here's our take on rules for effective networking:

1. Don't discount handshakes: A handshake is your first physical interaction with someone and it takes more time to recover from a bad handshake than it does to give a good one.

2. No complaints: Do not complain about anything to people you meet at a networking event. You may be having a horrible day but complaining about it to people you just met won't get you anywhere. Always keep conversations on a positive note and avoid any negative news or topics.

3. Don't be selfish : Networking is not a solo sport! You should network to help others and not just yourself. If you bear only your own interests in mind contacts will realize that they see no benefit in staying connected with you. Always aim to establish a symbiotic relationship with your business contacts.

4. Stay connected : Aim to establish weak ties as opposed to strong ties. Weak ties are contacts that are more acquaintances than friends. With friends we establish strong ties and often times have the same mutual friends and similar access to information resulting in an inbred network. Weak ties are established by touching base with contacts once or twice a month via email or LinkedIn. Make sure your keep message content relevant to your working relationship.

5. Diversify your network : An effective network will enable you to have access to many different people and their skill sets. The key to this is diversity. While looking to fill your network you should strive to meet people in sectors and industries that differ from your own. By creating a diversified network you will have access to varying skill sets that complement and even challenge your own. This will be helpful building cross-industrial and even cross-cultural working relationships.

6. Get carded : One of the most important things you need to pass on aside from your name and designation is your contact information. It's crucial to carry an adequate amount of business cards when attending networking events. Passing on your business card is not only a means of passing on your contact information it's also a means of requesting information from a new contact; passing on your card will prompt the other to give out his/her card in 99% of cases. It's also a great exit strategy to leave one group and move on to another. Always pass on your card with a leading statement such as "Here's my card do keep in touch".

7. Evaluate your network : It's important to know your network and be aware of the contacts you have and which contacts you'd like to have. Make a list of your top 10-15 contacts and what sectors they're involved in. If you find the bulk of your contacts are from the same sector you may have an inbred network thus you need to diversify. If your network is already diversified you need to watch for dilution and make sure you streamline your network in order to have a balanced mix of contacts from your own and differing sectors.

Copyright © 2012 by Professional Edge Consulting