It's a small world when doing business in Johnson County. Many companies such as NSK, Endress + Hauser, KYB, and Mitsubishi Climate Control have international roots.

While these and others usually follow traditional Western business customs and practices, it is important to understand and respect traditions that are important to foreign partners.

The Johnson County Development Corporation (JCDC) has developed relationships with a number of international companies that have plants in Johnson County. These relationships are very valuable and are important in the business community.

Dana Monson, Director of Business Development for JCDC shares her thoughts on how to communicate respectfully with other cultures in the business community.

Develop, nurture the relationship
When a business owner plans to work with an international company, it is important to take the time to develop a good relationship with that company. One way to start developing the relationship is to learn about their culture.

Greetings
Bonjour, guten tag, hola, konnichiwa, and ni hao are all ways to say hello in another language. In some cultures it is acceptable to greet a businessperson with a handshake. In Japan, they greet one another with a bow. A foreign visitor should shake hands with a slight nod and when receiving a business card from a Japanese business representative, it is considered impolite to put the card in your pocket or write on the card.

Punctuality
Punctuality is an important part of doing business. Cultures such as the Chinese, German, Japanese, British, and Americans value their time. It is crucial to be punctual when doing business with these cultures. However in France, it is acceptable to be 15 minutes late to a meeting.

Gestures
In countries such as Australia, Greece, and the Middle East the American “thumbs up” sign is considered to be an offensive gesture. In Germany or Japan they use their thumb to count. Pointing with your index finger is also considered a rude gesture but in some countries it is highly offensive.

Entertainment
In France many business meetings are done over lunch in order to allow time for building relationships. If you are dining with someone from the Chinese or Japanese culture you should be aware of chopstick etiquette. Gift giving is acceptable for special occasions in Chinese and Japanese cultures.

Communicate patiently
When speaking to a representative with a foreign company, speak clearly and enunciate - but don’t over-enunciate. Avoid speaking too quickly or mumbling. Do not use colloquialisms or slang. Also, it is important to remember when speaking that you allow time for the other person to process what has been said. 

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