Attorney and global business entrepreneur, Azzam Elder, has a wide array of interests ranging from a specialty in US health care law and reforms to global investment and business advisory services. Azzam Elder prioritizes delivering superior services to all his clients via his business and investment advisory services firm, Halo-Bloom, LLC. Effectively serving a global clientele has taught Azzam Elder the importance of mastering the art of managing across cultures. If you aspire to stand out in the global business arena, note the following tips from Azzam Elder:

Do Your Research

A little preparation can go a long way when you are working in the global arena. Don’t just limit yourself to Google; there resources available at libraries, embassies, trade missions, business development organizations, etc. Take every opportunity available to learn more about the culture of your prospective clients. When you are looking to take your career globally, there is no such thing as too much information.

Be Aware of Major Cultural Differences

Doing your research will help make you aware of the major cultural differences or opposing viewpoints that you may encounter in your travels or in dealing with clients. For example, it serves you much better to know before arriving in China, that asking direct questions will result in almost anything other than a direct answer. Not only that, but you will most likely offend your host or prospective client and/or business partner.

Give Yourself Adequate Time to Learn About and Experience New Cultures

When working with clients abroad or investigating new foreign direct investment opportunities, remember to have patience. Cultivating knowledge of other cultures and successful business partnerships takes time. Don’t put undue pressure on an already challenging situation by imposing unrealistic time lines. If you want to do business abroad or serve a global clientele, resign yourself to a life on the road, and give yourself the time to learn.




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