What do you do if your efforts to connect with foreign market stakeholders are met with resistance?

When your efforts to connect with foreign market stakeholders hit a wall, switch gears like a skilled driver on a tricky road. First, do a culture deep-dive — what works at home may miss the mark abroad. Tailor your communication to their local customs and preferences. Build trust by finding mutual ground and showing long-term value, not just quick wins. Use intermediaries or local champions to bridge gaps, and always be patient. People aren’t resisting you, per se; they’re resisting unfamiliarity. So, be persistent, but flexible — remember, even the best GPS recalculates the route when needed!

Local Customs Reevaluate your approach to ensure it aligns with local customs and business practices; sometimes minor adjustments can make a big difference. Engage a local cultural advisor to help you understand and navigate the cultural nuances that may be causing resistance.

What is happening is not necessarily a resistance. Understanding the local nuances of the new environment will make the difference to connecting with foreign market stakeholders. This is where cultural intelligence comes into play, a critical tool/skill for business leaders and global organizations who do businesses in foreign countries.

Always find out the language being spoken and get a good interpreter with the help of your network or professional bodies. Learn the basic or common greetings and pleasantries in the language. That way your foreign business counterparts would see you as someone who is willing to learn. If you know how to speak the language, it's a plus to you.

Language Barriers Utilize professional translation services to ensure all communications are clear and culturally appropriate. Consider learning basic phrases in the local language or hiring bilingual staff to help bridge communication gaps.

Adapt Your Offer Tailor your products or services to better meet the specific needs and preferences of the local market. Solicit feedback directly from local customers or stakeholders to understand their concerns and adjust your offer accordingly.

Relationship building differs a little in separate markets, but they all do have some commonalities. First, build empathy with your local partner or client in this new market. You can do this by identifying some common interests, or asking questions about the country and the local culture. Learn a few words in the local language so that the locals understand that you are making an effort to connect with them in a deeper level. In addition, say something positive about the culture, its people, or something the country is recognized for. With these starters, the local people in the new market will begin to feel more comfortable with you and may be more open in listening to your proposals and opportunities presented.

Relationship Building Invest time in developing personal relationships with key stakeholders through regular visits and personal meetings. Show genuine interest in your stakeholders' business and personal interests to build trust and camaraderie.

Patience Pays Understand that building relationships and establishing trust in new markets can take time; patience is crucial. Stay committed to your efforts, even when progress seems slow, as persistence often leads to breakthroughs.

Seek Expertise Consult with market entry consultants or local business experts who understand the market dynamics and can provide strategic advice. Leverage networks like local chambers of commerce or industry associations to gain insights and make connections.