Zhukova T.V., English language advisor. The essence of business communication is considered, the tips how to succeed in business communication are formulated

The essence of business communication is considered, the tips how to succeed in business communication are formulated. The influence of cultural differences on achievements in conducting business abroad is substantiated. The backgrounds of successful business lunch with foreigners are exposed.

У статті розглянуто сутність ділового спілкування; сформульовано основні передумови успіху ділового спілкування; обґрунтовано вплив культурних різноманітностей на ведення переговорів із закордонними партнерами; надано основні поради, яких слід дотримуватись під час бізнес-ланчу.

The 21st century we live in can be generally identified with three general terms: the time of information, the time of globalization, the time of business… Due to these items, people from various cultures and countries are increasing to conduct business with each other. Our global economy is cram-full with various goods and services which we are desperately trying to sell to each other. How can one score a success in this crazy world? The answer is quite simple: we just have to learn how to understand each other. There are some communication secrets which will help one to do this successfully.

On the one hand the experts recommend us to ask the right questions. Part of selling your services is being able to understand the client’s unique needs. One can do this only by asking questions that get to the heart of the challenges they are facing.

On the other hand one should pause and listen to his partner. When we have several topics to tackle, rushing through them to get all of the ideas out may be tempting. But this causes confusion and makes the client feel that their input is not important. One should slow down, and remember that communication is a two-way street.

The last but not the list tip deals with confident communication. The right way to support one’s confidence is to use body language. One should shake hands firmly, smile and make eye contact while communicating at live networking events. Don’t forget to bring business cards to hand out to everyone you meet, and remember to relax and just to be yourself.

Moreover to this points while conducting business abroad we have to keep in mind cultural peculiarities, customs and traditions of the country we deal with.

Travelling to all corners of the world gets easier and easier. We live in a global village, but this doesn't mean that we all behave in the same way. Here is a simple test. To understand what it is speaking about imagine you have a meeting with your foreign partner at four o’clock. What time should you expect your business colleagues to arrive? If they are German, they will be bang on time. If they are American, they will probably be 15 minutes early. If they are British, they will be 15 minutes late, and you should allow up to an hour for the Italians [1, 40].

When the process of globalization began to gather pace, several guidebooks appeared giving advice on international etiquette. At first many of us used to think that it was a joke. We all have two arms and two legs, furthermore we all are intelligent, so it may not be any problems in the point of communication. It is necessary to mention, that British are continuing to take the view, that the widespread understanding of their language means a corresponding understanding of English customs. So the first step due to success is to change these ideas and finally to realize that, we have a lot to learn about how to behave with our foreign business friends.

In the world of business, communication is imperative for the successful execution of daily operations. Understanding cultural differences and overcoming language barriers are some of the considerations people should have when dealing with business with people of various cultures. Often business deals are lost because the parties involved did not take the time to learn about their each others' cultures prior to interacting [2, 51].

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”, - says the well known proverb. Let’s try to find out some fundamental points of business communication in different countries. It will be appropriate to start with greeting.

From little up all of us know the greeting words and probably can translate them into different languages. But is it enough to greet our foreign colleagues? What else should we know not to get into a jam? An American or Canadian will shake your hand firmly while looking straight in your eyes. In many parts of Asia, there is no physical contact at all. In Thailand and Japan the greeting is made by pressing both hands together at the chest, as if you are praying, and bowing your head slightly. In both countries eye contact is avoided as a sign of respect [1, 40].

An important step in doing business is introduction of oneself. In most countries the essential for this is an exchange of business cards, in which one should include his or her company name and position. If you are going to a country where your language is not widely spoken, you can get the reverse side of your card printed in the local language. Keep in mind, that in Japan you must present your card with both hands, with the writing facing the person you are giving it to.

Half the battle in doing business is choosing the right time. In many countries business hours are from 9.00 or 10.00 to 17.00 or 18.00. However in some countries, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain, some businesses close in the early afternoon for a couple of hours and then remain open until the late evening.

Japanese business people consider it their professional duty to go out after work with colleagues to restaurants, bars, or nightclubs. If you are invited, you shouldn't refuse, even if you don't feel like staying out late [3, 27].

In many countries you will probably do your business while eating. There are some tips that will crown your business lunch with success.

· In many Asian cultures, it is acceptable to smack one’s lips while eating. It means that the food is good.

· In France, one shouldn't sit down in a cafe until he or she has shaken hands with everyone they know.

· In India and the Middle East, the left hand must not be used for greeting, eating or drinking.

· In China, the host will keep refilling one’s dish unless he or she lay the chopsticks across the bowl.

· Most South Americans and Mexicans like to stand very close to the person they are talking to. One shouldn't back away.

· In Ireland, social events sometimes end with singing and dancing. One may be asked to sing.

· In America, one should eat his or her hamburger with both hands and as quickly as possible. A conversation will not begin until it is eaten [1, 41].

Of course these are only some basic points of business communication. However while there is no short and easy way to learn about a given culture in any depth, these general principles will lead to success in conducting business with people of backgrounds unlike our own.