Malta
Exchange of Business CardsIn Maltese business practice, it is customary to exchange business cards during introductions at the first meeting. The business card should be given to each person present.
Saudi Arabia
Communication SpecificsIn Saudi Arabian business culture, building and maintaining relationships is of great importance, especially when it comes to interactions with foreign partners. Focus on developing personal connections — this may include conversations unrelated to business, participation in social events together, attending forums, and more. These time investments are highly valued and will pay off in the long run.
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.
2026/09/18
From real-world business practice. Vodafone Group – Mannesmann AG: The €180 Billion Transaction — How Europe’s Largest Hostile Takeover Reshaped the Telecommunications Industry
What began as a strategic partnership ultimately turned into one of the most high-profile corporate battles in European history. The struggle for control of Mannesmann lasted nearly three months and involved public statements, strong resistance from the company’s management, and an extensive campaign to win over shareholders. It ended with a record-breaking transaction valued at approximately €180 billion.
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
Small talk
Today I am going to speak about such an important thing in business as small talk. It's SO CULTURAL! I mean it's very different in different cultures. As an example, let's have a look at Chinese business practice:
Check yourself before you sit down at the negotiating table
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Contact us if you have any questions, can't find the right training or need more information.
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