252375 Apply knowledge of basic geographical principles v 2021

The effect of different languages
on international trade is explained

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China

• Unless you speak Chinese, difficult to do
business in many parts of china

• Communicating in China can be a slow,
laborious activity

• Dangers in terms of misunderstanding and
mistranslation

• Limited amount of visual body language

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Italy

• Italians speak a lot
• Formal presentations feature less heavily
• Information would typically be

disseminated in a less formal manner
• Italians put more faith in information given

to them orally
• Strong, trusting relationship

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Britain

• Diplomacy before directness in
communication

• Non-confrontational in business situations
• British also use language in a coded

manner

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General Guidelines

• Always use clear, simple and
straightforward language

• Avoid poetic and artistic expressions,
idioms, colloquialisms, and slang

• Avoid using too many abbreviations
• Avoid replying on an enquiry by phone
• Always keep written records

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The consequences of disregarding cultural sensitivities in negotiating and
administering international trade

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Seven Elements of Business Culture

1. Relationships
2. Language
3. Body Language
4. Religion
5. Values and Attitudes
6. Laws and Legal Environment
7. Education

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Questions
& Answers

For further information on this and
other Training Courses offered by
GMLS, please contact us on:-

Website: www.gmls.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Office Mobile: +27 82 852 3626

Tel: +27 44 020 0103
or +27 10 880 4342

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