{"id":7935,"date":"2017-01-19T15:15:18","date_gmt":"2017-01-19T15:15:18","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/hnews.hult.edu\/?p=7935"},"modified":"2026-05-06T13:17:56","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T12:17:56","slug":"cultural-differences-impact-international-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hult.edu\/blog\/cultural-differences-impact-international-business\/","title":{"rendered":"How cultural differences impact international business in 2017"},"content":{"rendered":"

As companies continue to expand across borders and the global marketplace becomes increasingly more accessible for small and large businesses alike, 2017 brings ever more opportunities to work internationally.<\/p>\n

Multinational<\/strong> and cross-cultural<\/strong> teams are likewise becoming ever more common, meaning businesses can benefit from an increasingly diverse knowledge base and new, insightful approaches to business problems. However, along with the benefits of insight and expertise, global organizations also face potential stumbling blocks when it comes to culture and international business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

While there are a number of ways to define culture, put simply it is a set of common and accepted norms shared by a society. But in an international business context, what is common and accepted for a professional from one country, could be very different for a colleague from overseas. Recognizing and understanding how culture affects international business<\/a> in three core areas: communication, etiquette, and organizational hierarchy<\/strong> can help you to avoid misunderstandings with colleagues and clients from abroad and excel in a globalized business environment.<\/p>\n

1. Communication<\/h2>\n

Effective communication is essential to the success of any business venture, but it is particularly critical when there is a real risk of your message getting \u201clost in translation.\u201d In many international companies, English is the de facto language of business. But more than just the language you speak, it\u2019s how<\/em> you convey your message that\u2019s important. For instance, while the Finns may value directness and brevity, professionals from India can be more indirect and nuanced in their communication. Moreover, while fluent English might give you a professional boost globally, understanding the importance of subtle non-verbal communication between cultures can be equally crucial in international business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

What might be commonplace in your culture \u2014 be it a firm handshake, making direct eye contact, or kiss on the cheek \u2014 could be unusual or even offensive to a foreign colleague or client. Where possible, do your research in advance of professional interactions with individuals from a different culture. Remember to be perceptive to body language, and when in doubt, ask. While navigating cross-cultural communication can be a challenge, approaching cultural differences with sensitivity, openness, and curiosity can help to put everyone at ease<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is an atmosphere of understanding and support at Hult. Everyone has this respect and curiosity for all the cultural and personal differences between us. This environment encourages everyone to strive for excellence.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tatiana Ufimtceva
\nHult MBA Class of 2014<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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At Hult, we\u2019re fortunate to have a student body made up of over 130 different nationalities. With the opportunity to study alongside peers from all corners of the globe, building cross-cultural communication skills<\/a> is at the core of our business programs<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Watch Hult Professor Jean Vanhoegaerden discussing why culture is important in international business<\/strong>:
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