As we all know it, all good things come to an end. But at the same time, this feels like just the beginning, the start of a road full of adventure, growth, and unforgettable memories.
After spending 27 days across six incredible countries, the United Kingdom, France, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy, my perspective on international business and culture has completely shifted. Before this trip, I thought business was pretty much the same everywhere, especially in countries that seemed somewhat similar to the US. But visiting companies like BMW, L’Occitane, Lloyd’s of London, Design Bridge and Partners, and Bucherer showed me that every country has its own way of doing business, shaped by its culture, values, and traditions.
What really surprised me on this trip was how the approach to doing business can feel so different depending on the country. In some places like France and Italy, the atmosphere in meetings felt more personal and relaxed, almost like the relationship itself was the foundation before any deals or decisions were made. In contrast, places like the UK and Germany were much more formal and structured, with a clear focus on getting straight to business without much small talk. Seeing these differences in action made me realize how important it is to stay flexible and adjust your communication style depending on the culture you are working with. It is not a one size fits all process. Being aware of these unique approaches can make or break a business relationship.
I also expected communication to feel more difficult because of language or cultural gaps, but most professionals we met were welcoming and used to working with international guests. That showed me that you do not need to know everything perfectly. Being open minded, curious, and respectful goes a long way.
Overall, this experience taught me that international business is not about following one set of rules everywhere. It is about flexibility, people skills, and being willing to adapt and learn from others. My assumptions going into this trip were not entirely right, but that is what made this journey so valuable. I am walking away from this experience feeling more confident, more curious, and more excited to engage with the world in both my personal and professional life.