A businessman highlighted perspectives of globalization and international business on Nov. 1 during a lecture held in Shippensburg University’s Grove Hall forum.
Stephen Creskoff, author of “What You Need to Know to Go Global: A Guide to International Trade,” said businessmen and women need to be aware of cultural differences and embrace social responsibility for their businesses or companies. New technologies such as Bitcoins, 3-D printing, drones and robotics are crucial on the impact of future business careers, as well as globalization, the process in which people, ideas and goods spread throughout the world.
“After college I am interested in being employed outside of the United States and having my business experience become more diverse,” SU senior Cortney Hudak said.
When conducting business internationally, Creskoff said there are many cultural differences it is important to remain aware of.
“For example in China, they like to have several dinners, meetings, golfing, one-on-one time with their future client and business partner,” Creskoff said. “It is very important to understand the culture you are working with or you could offend them.”
Small actions such as cheating during a game of golf can tell a client how you would act as a person when becoming business partners, according to Creskoff.
Small aspects of American culture such as nodding your head, or a shake of a hand could offend a client because of cultural norms and differences.
Creskoff also touched on the importance of good business social responsibility, when an organization or individual fulfills an obligation to act for the benefit of society at large. Creskoff said companies such as Ben and Jerry’s and Wal-Mart are good examples of companies which have embraced this concept.
“[A] big population means a big market for trade,” Creskoff said.
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