International Culture Understanding the culture in a country or region in which you are doing business is a critical skill for the international business person. Without this knowledge, a successful outcome to the business venture can be in jeopardy.   The following resources can assist you in understanding the critical importance of working in and with other cultures around the world:   International Business Meetings & Gift Giving - A detailed two part article of exactly how international business meetings are conducted and business gifts given in different countries.   International Success Tips & Secrets - A short article on building international business relationships.   International Business Etiquette and Manners - Top ranked Website for information on Culture around the World. Winner of the Golden Web Award for 2003-2004   ITIM - Worldwide Network of Consultants and Trainers specializing in InterCultural issues by utilizing the work of Dr. Geert Hofstede and others.

. . .   Culture is defined as the unique ideas, customs, skills, arts, behaviors, appearances, and communications of a group of persons.   Culture frequently does not align with the borders of countries. Rather, it aligns more with geographical boundaries and formations, i.e. mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, etc.   It is unfortunate, but one of the more frequent causes of conflict around the world is the inability of divergent cultures, within the borders of a single country, to get along together.