Chang Chang for Cultural Exchange

Today there is dancing and drumming at N.C. State University. It is not exactly a fancy football tail gate party. And it doesn't find its roots in a fraternity week-end bash. It is a University Haitian Celebration aimed to increase cultural awareness of the small island nation. The event highlights Haiti's culture, both the good and the bad: the art, the music, and the child slavery. While raising awareness the students and event coordinators are also raising funds to rebuild schools and support Haitian children.

Cultural awareness is a fantastic opportunity in a universtiy setting, and its an important aspect of working with international suppliers as well. While working in China I prepared myself for the important event of business card exchange. I have sat around conference tables in the United States where people deal out their business cards like a blackjack dealer in Las Vegas. However, the exchange of business cards is an important transaction in China. When giving your card, you repeat key information listed and hand it to the recipient with both hands. The recipeint will receive it with two hands, confirm your name and perhaps other information and you will each briefly hold the card before the exchange is complete. Yes. Four hands on one tiny business card. But it works. And it feels good too.

When accepting a business card from a Chinese business professional, the exchange should include repeating information repeated to you and a two-handed acceptance. Following the exchange, never shove the card in your wallet or bag. And certainly do not write on the card. Although either is common or even perfectly acceptable in the United States, both actions would be considered rude and offensive in China.

Although its probably a good time in Raleigh, N.C. today, you don't necessarily have to drum and dance to increase your cutural awareness of another country. What are some cultural differences have you observed?

Sample Test Question: Task 1-C-2

Sam, a purchasing professional, is traveling to another country for a site visit to what will hopefully be a strategic supplier to his company. His manager has tasked him with wrapping up the deal and getting contracts signed before returning to the United States as the team is anxious to begin using this supplier for a key component. When Sam arrives he is greeted by the senior manager and taken to a welcome dinner that suprisingly appears to be in his honor. The next morning he enjoys a long and thorough tour of the plant site. However, that afternoon, when he pulls out contract papers, the senior manager quickly changes the subject and refuses to even look at the documentation. He instead focuses on more personal topics. The next morning before Sam flies back to the United States he is presented with a beautiful small statue. Sam returns home with a meaningful gift, and seemingly new friends, but no signed contract. His manager believes Sam has failed and the trip was a waste of effort.

Which of the following MOST LIKELY summarizes Sam's international experience:

A) Sam was visiting a supplier that had no interest in doing business with his company, yet placed a high value on being kind to visitors.

B) Sam was visiting a supplier that had no interest in doing business with his company, yet enjoyed visiting with and learning from business professionals from other countries.

C) Sam was visiting a supplier that may have an interest in doing business with his company, but was in country that places a high value on establishing personal relationships before determining whether or not they want to do business with someone.

D) Sam was ineffective in asserting himself and the goals for his trip and probably failed to secure the strategic supplier.