Lebanese business
Discussion
In our experience, many Middle Eastern clients are quite happy to accept your business culture and approach over theirs. There’s also a chance that in trying not to offend, you do that very thing by misinterpreting some of the subtleties.
However, there are a few little pointers.
• Firstly, try to find out the religion of the person / people you are presenting to. IIRC, Lebanon is 60% Muslim, 40% Christian. If your clients fall into the latter, then no need to change anything. If the former….
• Don’t be afraid to sign off the presentation with “Insha ‘aa Allah” (by the will of God).
• Never hand your business card to someone with your left hand. Never do anything with your left hand.
• Having your presentation documents translated is not essential but does earn you brownie points (Lebanon uses French-Arabic – can advise on good translation service if needed).
• I’ve also found that Arabs are not big on Q&As so make sure you cover what you need to in the presentation.
• I’d also advise that you flag your intentions up with your local UK Ti office as they can offer a whole host of help and advice and sometimes a bit of funding support too. They will also let you know the regulations in dealing with companies in the country – this is very important!
Bottom line though is not to get too hung up on all this. Despite perceptions, Middle Eastern businesses are very accepting of western businesses and are looking to buy from you not because you have an in-depth understanding of their culture, religion or history but because you are offering something that they need.
However, there are a few little pointers.
• Firstly, try to find out the religion of the person / people you are presenting to. IIRC, Lebanon is 60% Muslim, 40% Christian. If your clients fall into the latter, then no need to change anything. If the former….
• Don’t be afraid to sign off the presentation with “Insha ‘aa Allah” (by the will of God).
• Never hand your business card to someone with your left hand. Never do anything with your left hand.
• Having your presentation documents translated is not essential but does earn you brownie points (Lebanon uses French-Arabic – can advise on good translation service if needed).
• I’ve also found that Arabs are not big on Q&As so make sure you cover what you need to in the presentation.
• I’d also advise that you flag your intentions up with your local UK Ti office as they can offer a whole host of help and advice and sometimes a bit of funding support too. They will also let you know the regulations in dealing with companies in the country – this is very important!
Bottom line though is not to get too hung up on all this. Despite perceptions, Middle Eastern businesses are very accepting of western businesses and are looking to buy from you not because you have an in-depth understanding of their culture, religion or history but because you are offering something that they need.
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