What are the best ways to keep up with international business practices?

2 Communicate effectively across cultures

Another way to keep up with international business practices is to communicate effectively across cultures. This means being aware of the different communication styles, norms, and preferences of your clients and adapting your approach accordingly. You can use tools, such as Hofstede's cultural dimensions, to compare and contrast the cultural values and behaviors of different countries. You can also learn some basic phrases and etiquette of your clients' languages to show respect and interest. By communicating effectively across cultures, you can build rapport, trust, and understanding with your clients.

3 Leverage technology and tools

A third way to keep up with international business practices is to leverage technology and tools that can help you manage your accounts more efficiently and effectively. This means using platforms, such as CRM, email, video conferencing, and project management, to organize, track, and communicate with your clients. You can also use tools, such as Google Translate, currency converters, and time zone calculators, to overcome some of the common challenges of working with international clients. By leveraging technology and tools, you can save time, money, and resources while delivering high-quality service to your clients.

4 Join professional networks and communities

A fourth way to keep up with international business practices is to join professional networks and communities that can provide you with valuable information, feedback, and support. This means connecting with other account managers, experts, and influencers who work with international clients and share your interests and challenges. You can join online groups, forums, and social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, to exchange ideas, insights, and experiences. You can also attend events, webinars, and workshops, either online or offline, to learn from the best practices and trends in the field. By joining professional networks and communities, you can expand your knowledge, skills, and network while staying updated and inspired.

5 Seek feedback and improvement

A fifth way to keep up with international business practices is to seek feedback and improvement on your performance and results. This means asking your clients, colleagues, managers, and mentors for their opinions, suggestions, and testimonials on how you can improve your account management skills and outcomes. You can also use tools, such as surveys, reviews, and analytics, to measure and monitor your client satisfaction, retention, and loyalty. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can identify your strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for growth and development.

6 Embrace diversity and change

A sixth way to keep up with international business practices is to embrace diversity and change as part of your account management career. This means being open-minded, curious, and flexible when working with clients from different backgrounds, perspectives, and expectations. You can also be proactive, innovative, and adaptable when facing new situations, challenges, and opportunities in the global business environment. By embracing diversity and change, you can enjoy the benefits and rewards of working with international clients while enhancing your personal and professional growth.

7 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?