Lately, international expansion has become a common technique for large businesses to grow economically. However, to what extent do cultural differences impact the overall success of international business expansion, and if so, in what ways? Following are possible differences faced by any company expanding internationally:
The first cultural difference is related to advertising. You may experience trouble with advertising styles and approaches to marketing products and services. While certain advertising campaigns may work in your native country, they may not go over well in other countries. Whether it’s based on the color scheme you use or simply on the choice of words you select to be part of your marketing campaign, professional language services can help ensure your marketing/advertising message carries the same weight overseas as it does at home.
Another obvious cultural difference relates to the language barrier. Working with people who don’t speak the same language you do can often lead to miscommunication and problems in the workplace. Hiring an interpreter in these kinds of situations is recommended in order to avoid possible mistakes in communication.
General customs may also be a major cultural difference when expanding your business. Social interactions are not the same in every country. In Japan, for instance, it is expected you will take off your shoes every time you walk into a room. Make sure to read up on general customs of countries that you plan on working with before you go move your business there!
The final cultural difference has to do with technology. While the United States has a significant presence online, smaller countries do not rely so much on computers and prefer to work the old-fashioned way with pen and paper. Before expanding your business to other countries, it is important to make sure you are prepared to operate according to the local country’s standards.
Do you have thoughts about international business expansion? We’d love to read your thoughts in the comments!
