This seminar examines some of the hidden cultural issues that undermine business. It uses a particular culture, Japanese or Latin American for example, as a template for understanding how people develop different �mindsets.� We review the background factors that shape values, rules, and beliefs of a given culture.  The outcome is a broad perspective and set of tools to use when working with people from any cultural background different than one�s own. 

Management professionals who are working in international business or with cross-cultural work teams at home or abroad.

This seminar explores the unique aspects of history and culture that have influenced the development of modern society. In particular, the historical development has a profound influence on corporate structure, interpersonal behaviors, education, and societal norms. Included are linguistic nuances in the use of language that have a profound impact on communication styles.

This seminar explores some of the fundamental business practices common in Latin America. It covers decision making process as well as negotiating strategies.

This seminar is designed for people who have some experience working with Japanese companies and would like to improve their communication and negotiating skills. Participants in this program will:

• develop an understanding of cultural differences relevant to negotiation
• become familiar with typical Japanese negotiating strategies
• experience the Japanese customer relations through case studies and role play

This program is primarily group exercises and role-play. It can be tailored to meet the needs of the client through up-front interviews with employees and Japanese business partners or subsidiaries as appropriate. Such interviews enable us to determine problem areas specific to the company or industry and to develop case scenarios to address those issues.

This seminar is offered as a customized program and requires familiarity with the concepts presented in �Historical, Cultural, and Linguistic Perspecitves� and �Japanese Business Practices.� Works best with groups of 8 to 12 people.

This seminar explores some of the issues that can arise when different people speak the �same� language.

This course is aimed at business professionals who wish to have enough familiarity with Japanese language to enable them to get around Japan without fear. Taught by a non-native speaker who is familiar with all the pitfalls of learning Japanese, it is an introduction to the Japanese language with emphasis on:

• basic Japanese language structure
• phrases to be polite in business and social situations
• ability to handle shopping, eating, and traveling in Japan
• a set of necessary Kanji characters

This is course is designed as an introduction only to the language and is not intended for serious students of Japanese language.

This course is offered to suit the client�s needs. It consists of eight modules that can be taught over a time period of the client�s choosing. For example, if you have personnel who are about to leave for a trip to Japan, the course can be taught as a two-day intensive. For a less hectic schedule, the course can be scheduled as eight 2-hour sessions taught over the course of 1 to 4 weeks.