Iceland
Exchange of Business CardsIn Icelandic business practice, it is customary to exchange business cards during introductions at the first meeting, as well as at various events, conferences and forums.
Saudi Arabia
Small Talk: OverviewBusiness conversations in Saudi Arabia are usually preceded by small talk, which serves as a kind of prelude to the actual negotiations. For Arab businessmen, it is important to get to know their potential partner better, as relationship-building is the foundation of any business. These conversations help establish a sense of trust between partners—a crucial value in the Arab world.
CASES FROM BUSINESS PRACTICE
Why can a multi-billion merger founder on cultural differences? Why does a talented employee strike their manager as lacking initiative? We examine real business situations and show the role intercultural differences play in them.
2026/09/16
When Initiative Becomes a Problem: Cross-Cultural Conflict in an International Team. Why Can’t a German Manager and a Chinese Employee Understand Each Other?
A talented employee who consistently delivers strong results is seen by her manager as lacking initiative. But does a reluctance to act independently necessarily indicate a lack of competence?
This case illustrates how workplace conflict may stem not from the individuals involved, but from differences in national culture.
Check yourself before you sit down at the negotiating table
WHO THIS PROJECT IS FOR
Students
and educators
For those interested in the topic of cross-cultural differences
Read Ask a Question
Personnel of organizations
For those involved in the development of cooperation programs with foreign countries
Read Ask a QuestionFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
During the greeting
In a number of cultures a firm Russian handshake is not accepted, for example, in India and Iraq. How should you greet your partner?
When contacting
It can be difficult to determine where on a business card is the first name and last name, and when it is possible to switch to "you".
Giving a business card
What language should the business card be in? What is important to remember when passing it on?
Starting conversation
What topics are considered dangerous? And what is the best way to engage in conversation?
Manners
Pauses in conversation, loud expressive speech, violent gesticulation? What is common in my partner's culture?
The answers to these and many other questions can be found on this site:
- business etiquette — in the intercultural navigator
- business practice — in-depth country information Order
- business situations, problematic issues — trainings, consultations Order
ARTICLES ON BUSINESS CULTURE
Why are decisions made quickly in some cultures and over weeks in others? What lies behind a partner's silence — or their unexpected “yes”? Our articles offer observations and practical advice for working with foreign partners.
2024/07/27
Inappropriate gifts
This post will also be about presents. But this time let's talk about inappropriate gifts.
In fact, it's also cultural.
Check yourself before you sit down at the negotiating table
Consultation Request
Contact us if you have any questions, can't find the right training or need more information.
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