Over this past month I have learned a lot about business abroad, and how it differs from business in the United States. One of the key cultural differences that I noticed is how much more laid back these industries seem than America. Yes, every country and every business that we visited got their work done effectively and efficiently, however, America seems to have more of a hustle and bustle factor. European business also seems to have a lot more focus on collaboration and relationship building compared to American business culture. Yes, I would say American business culture is shifting towards being more collaborative, but European culture is for the most part already implementing this principle. All of that being said, it was very cool to see a lot of the same business practices translate over across the globe as well. I did notice a lot of similarities between European and American business as well. Both make an effort to create relationships, and make guests feel welcome. Throughout business visits abroad and in Texas, I have been greeted with an overwhelming sense of invitation, which has made me feel very comfortable. My time overseas has definitely changed my perspective on business abroad. Before this trip, I had the wrong impression that interactions would be very different compared to the United States. I don’t know why that was, because at the end of the day we are both trying to achieve the same goal. With getting the opportunity to see 8 countries, I was also able to see how business is conducted differently not only between the US and Europe, but how each country has different nuances with its culture. The one where this was most apparent was in France. France definitely values formalities, and appreciates utmost respect through interactions. Not only through business culture, but even on the trains, it was customary that no one sits if the train is full, and that every interaction begins with a “Bonjour!”
