The global pandemic continues to complicate how we conduct business with colleagues and customers around the world. It’s tempting to think that just because we have access to Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Hangouts, and other teleconferencing platforms, communications are the same everywhere. They are not. Wondering just how
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Why does culture matter? Most people hear about culture and immediately think about behaviors—a list of do’s and don’ts by culture and country. For example, one might think about bowing in Japan or knowing which gestures to avoid in countries around the world. And while gestures and
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In most years, the end of April and early May have pleasantly marked Golden Week in Japan. Showa Day (April 29th) is traditionally the start of this series of four holidays, which has become the longest and one of the busiest vacation periods for most Japanese
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Culture Applied: Practical Realities of Global Staffing & Local Culture Issues of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, and lifestyle continue to dominate our political, social, and corporate conversations. Most companies have detailed official staffing and employee policies against discrimination in any form. But how do firms
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April 29th, Showa Day, marks the start of Golden Week—a series of four holidays that has become the longest and one of the busiest vacation periods for most Japanese companies. The week continues with: May 3rd, Constitutional Memorial Day May 4th, Greenery Day May 5th, Children’s Day A
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As the second largest country in the world covering most of the northern part of the North American continent, Canada has an extremely varied geography. From its majestic mountains to its rugged coast lines, Canadians prize their beautiful country. Canada - A Melting Pot With a history
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Carnival forms an integral part of the Christian calendar. Say the word Carnival and most people instinctively think of Brazil, but the holiday is actually celebrated in Christian communities around the world—Brazilians have just become noteworthy for the level of their celebrations! Carnaval in Brazil As in
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China is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern. From its snowy mountain ranges to its long rivers and expansive deserts, China is home to a rich mix of ethnicities, cultures and traditions that can be traced back thousands of years. Understanding this balance of
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