Originally from Australia I have been working outside my home country for about 15 years all up. (With a small break back home in between)
In that time I have started and sold an internet marketing company in a different language, won work all over the world, and delivered consulting in around 27 different countries.
Success is everywhere, and it is a state of mind more than a goal.
For example, when I started the Spanish language marketing site I followed the rules of the world and of the region.
a) great content, easy to read and to use, regularly... this meant writing everything in Spanish. learning how to write and edit Spanish and learning how to deliver powerful messages in Spanish. (Same as you would in English)
b) Steer clear of politics and religion. Okay when you are in familiar surroundings, NOT okay when you are not.
Don't think to express a view on Chavez or Pinochet if you aren't from there. (Or don't even contemplate talking about religion in Saudi Arabia.. common sense stuff)
Or (to get closer to my own culture) don't think you have the ability to comment on nationalized health care to a guy from the UK... the same as he should not think he can comment on US style health care.
You don't know, none of your business, so steer clear of it.
c) Understand that communication is not universal.
In many middle eastern, and Latin American countries, rage is a valid part of negotiating and of day to day life. Nothing personal, just an expression of passion.
In Asia "losing face" is humiliating and humbling. So don't let your clients, customers etcetera "lose face".
In the UK candor is expected, in the US it is a little more subtle, in China it is non-existent. Such is life, so when in Rome do what the romans do.
d) Make the effort - I try to learn at least some of the language anywhere I go. I now speak a range of languages, some well, some poorly and some sound like inaudible grunts... but I don't care.
People see the effort and they appreciate it.
In Australia I expect (actually demand) that people speak English, so it would be the height of arrogance to not attempt to speak their language in their countries.
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