What are the best resources for researching country-specific business etiquette before traveling abroad?

1 Online guides and articles

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to learn about country-specific business etiquette is to read online guides and articles that provide an overview of the main dos and don'ts, tips, and advice for different countries and regions. You can find many of these resources on reputable websites such as the U.S. Department of State, the World Bank, the International Business Center, and the Culture Crossing Guide. These resources can help you get a general sense of the business culture, expectations, and etiquette of your destination, such as how to greet people, dress appropriately, exchange business cards, negotiate, and handle meetings.

2 Books and podcasts

Another way to deepen your knowledge of country-specific business etiquette is to read books and listen to podcasts that offer more detailed and nuanced insights into the history, values, beliefs, and customs of different countries and cultures. These resources can help you understand the context and rationale behind the business etiquette, and how to adapt your style and approach accordingly. Some examples of books and podcasts that cover country-specific business etiquette are Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison and Wayne A. Conaway, The Culture Map by Erin Meyer, Global Business Etiquette by Jeanette S. Martin and Lillian H. Chaney, and The Business of Culture by Josephine Green.

4 Cultural immersion and observation

A fourth way to research country-specific business etiquette is to immerse yourself in the culture and observe how people behave and interact in different settings and situations. This can be done before or during your travel, depending on your availability and budget. You can immerse yourself in the culture by watching movies, shows, documentaries, or news from the country, listening to music, reading newspapers or magazines, learning some basic phrases or words in the local language, or joining online forums or groups. You can observe the business etiquette by attending events, workshops, seminars, or webinars related to your field or industry in the country, or by shadowing or interviewing someone who works there.

5 Self-reflection and evaluation

A fifth way to research country-specific business etiquette is to reflect on your own cultural background, values, assumptions, and biases, and how they might affect your perception and behavior in a different context. This can help you become more aware of your strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas where you need to improve or adjust your skills, attitudes, or strategies. You can reflect on your own culture by taking online assessments or quizzes, such as the Hofstede Insights Cultural Compass, the Intercultural Development Inventory, or the Cultural Intelligence Scale. You can also evaluate your performance and progress by asking for feedback, reviewing your goals and outcomes, and celebrating your achievements and learnings.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?