empathy crosses
all borders
BY TONY PALLADINO
Building a global business requires global customers. This is an elementary concept and simply stated. Communication and connection to customers across borders is something that is best fitted for those that understand the importance of empathy in actions. Those in other countries may think differently in many of the ideas and concepts you find normal.
To plow forward in business interactions while overlooking the common ways that are local to your desired location could be a fatal flaw in making connections, or securing new business. Assuming that your business is able to engage in a global marketplace without the consideration of those beyond your borders may not be the most prudent method to build a foundation for growth beyond your borders. It would be wise to position your engagement, communication and branding to consider others in your global growth plan. This is where empathy plays a critical role.
Consider these options with empathy going global.
Connect with Care
Speaking from a perspective being based in the US, it seems that this would be common knowledge that when looking to engage across borders that one would be mindful of the customs and mindsets of others who may think differently when looking to grow globally. Unkind people exist in all parts of this world. Being aware of this, compassionate empathy in communication would plant seeds of positivity to those whom you are looking to connect with. Its simply in concept and yet often overlooked in actions. We are in the digital transformation age with access to a vast amount of information on other cultures and customs. Look to find out some things about the areas of where you potential customers or clients live. It may help in setting the tones and language used in speaking with them. Make an attempt to greet them in their language if possible, or give courtesy to events happening in the areas being genuine about it. In generalization, the East is more on collective mindset versus the West’s generalize focused on individualism. This is a massive generalization for the purpose of making the point to frame your conversations and strategy to focus on being real about showing empathy and kindness when crossing borders to build. Utilize all three levels of empathy – emotional, cognitive, and compassionate in your actions.
Kindness goes a long Way
Connecting with others from a genuine place to feel, understand and support them will allow for you to better position yourself to build real connections and relationships.
This matters in all business and especially when bringing your business into a global marketplace that already has local and
approaching business from an individual mind may leave you on the outside without any chance for connecting at a deep level that will help you grow.
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GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
BY PAUL GUNN
16 | BIZPRENEUR MIDDLE EAST July 2021