Business Etiquette: What Matters Most

 


I recently launched the poll: What is Business Etiquette for you?

The results are:

Building trust: 68%

Cultural Sensitivity: 24%

Politeness: 4%

Networking: 4%

Key takeaways:

Building Trust

Trust is essential for establishing credibility and developing long-term professional relationships.

It reflects the importance of reliability, integrity, and consistent communication in business, especially across different cultures.

Cultural Sensitivity

This highlights the global nature of modern business and the need to navigate multicultural environments effectively.

Politeness

Seen as a basic expectation and not as a major game changer.

Networking

Viewed more as a skill or outcome rather than an integral part of business etiquette.

So why is building trust in International Business key to success and strengthening long-term relationships?

Trust is the characteristic that can bridge cultural, linguistic, and geographical divides in business. It cultivates transparency, reduces misunderstandings, and enables long-term partnerships across different cultures. However, building trust in an international environment requires a deep understanding and adaptability to different cultural norms and practices.

Adapting to cultural nuances shows respect, builds credibility, and sets the foundation for successful business relationships.

Trust, however, is not built overnight. It’s a long term investment that grows over time through showing consistency, keeping promises and understanding your business partners cultural background and values.

All of that requires clear intercultural communication, cultural intelligence and adaptability.

Happy New Year from Brid.

Copyright © 2025 Third Culture Professionals

Photo Pexels: Mikhail Nilov

 








Brid is a native English speaker, fluent in French, a graduate in both International Business Communication and in Instructional Design. She is also accredited (TEFL) to teach English as a foreign language. Her professional experience spans over 20 years in an international environment, working in CAC 40 communication groups and as a consultant in Executive Search.