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Masters¡¦
Forum by Prof Walter Vieira, October 5, 2005
International
Business Protocol-
Mastering the rules of cross-cultural
norms
Prof
Walter Vieira, FIMC, CMC, former Chairman of the International
Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI)¡Kpassed through
Hong Kong again in early October after attending the ICMCI annual
conference that was held in Beijing. Seizing the opportunity
your Institute invited him once again to share his wisdom on helping
managers raise their sensitivity and competence when interacting
with foreigners.
Prof
Vieira addressing the audience
Prof
Vieira kicked off with a video clip playback recording a recent TV
of him. In his presentation he pointed out the subtle fact
that while business negotiations are conducted during the day, they
are often finalized at dinner. Businesses wanting to move from
good to best should consider empowering their executives with good
business etiquette.
As
usual through the dozen interesting and yet mind-provoking stories
illustrating the dissimilar conventions and practices of different
races and cultures, he summed up his wisdom in six principles of
business protocol that are universally applicable:
-
Be
on time
-
Be
discreet
-
Be
courteous, pleasant and positive
-
Be
concerned with others, not just yourself
-
Dress
appropriately
-
Use
proper spoken and written language
Packed
inside a function room at the YMCA Tsimshatsui, our popular venue,
more than two dozens members and guests kept Prof Vieira busy with
questions after his presentation till after 10 p.m.
Deputy
Chairman Felix Chan presenting a certificate of appreciation to Prof
Vieira
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