Category: Cross-Cultural
-
Central & Eastern European Global Gift Giving Customs
As a frequent business traveler, I seek opportunities to bring thoughtful gifts from Austin when I travel to Central and Eastern Europe. My business counterparts enjoy original Texas products including AustinNuts, Lammes Candies Longhorns, and Texas Map linens. So, how do I decide what gifts to bring to my European colleagues? Is there a difference between gift giving in…
-
Global Gift Giving in Asia and the U.S.A. 2021
A blue and white Texas porcelain tray is nestled beautifully among other cherished gifts on the office coffee table of Madam Nie Meisheng. She is the former Chairwoman of the Chinese Real Estate Chamber of Commerce in Beijing, China. When I gifted this eye-catching, artfully scalloped ‘made-in-Texas, USA’ tray, I intended it to be a special item…
-
The Culture Question Part II: International Negotiations
When looking to expand abroad or partner with a multinational firm, even the most successful business professionals get blindsided by unexpected cross-cultural differences. The reality is that certain business practices- including regulation, contract mediation, and decision making- vary widely according to the cultures in negotiation. Before you dive into trying to make a deal, familiarize…
-
Global Diversity Awareness Month 2021
Worldwide, as well as within the U.S., organizations are recognizing the importance of globally diverse teams for achieving success. Although its origins are unknown, Global Diversity Awareness Month is celebrated annually in October. It is an excellent time to learn about how a culturally diverse organization builds a strong foundation for creativity, engagement, and innovation…
-
10 ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR VISITING MUSEUMS
Many people are ready to venture out and explore the world again. A recent study at the Berlin Institute of Technology (TU Berlin) in Germany has determined that the risk of COVID-19 transmission is far lower in museums and theaters than in supermarkets, restaurants, offices, or public transportation. Since today is Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, we compiled a…
-
5 Customary Yom Kippur Practices
Yom Kippur, also known as the Day of Atonement, is the most significant holiday in Judaism. It is a day when the Jewish people ask forgiveness for the wrongs they have committed over the past year. It is the holiest day of the year and is traditionally observed with a day-long fast and intensive prayer.…
-
Honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month in 2021
From distinguished politicians driving social change to recognized STEM field innovators, Hispanics continue to make monumental contributions to the United States, as well as worldwide. With over 60 million U.S. American citizens of Latino or Hispanic heritage comprising 18 percent of the U.S. population, our country flourishes with rich cultural diversity. From September 15 through October 15, indulge in Hispanic…
-
Have a Rice Day Celebrating National Rice Month
National Rice Month began in 1991 when President George H.W. Bush signed an official proclamation designating September as the month. The president and the United States Rice Federation created this month-long celebration to encourage the consumption of this tiny, mighty grain in our daily dining. Today, we celebrate the grain responsible for feeding and nurturing more than…
-
7 Tips for World Photo Day 2021
Capturing the moment with a photograph in a new place, enjoying the sunrise, or the sunset on the coast, taking a photo can be an instinctive reaction for many people. Experts tell us almost every household in Western Europe and the U.S. owns a camera. Snapping images is not only meant for preserving memories, but…
-
JAPAN’S OBON FESTIVAL 2021
Japan’s Obon (or Bon) Festival, also known as the Festival of Souls or Lantern Festival, begins August 13 and ends on August 16, 2021. This annual Buddhist three-day festival has been celebrated for over 500 years in Japan and is dedicated to honoring ancestors as families reunite, and spirits visit household altars. Obon Origins The origin begins…