2. Tyler Kelly - Conducting Business in
Asia
A recent graduate of Lehigh University, Tyler Kelly
participated in The Conference Board’s
Sustainability Conference in 2010 and 2011. As a
result, he learned how corporations, government
agencies, and NGOs interact with regard to
management and sustainable business practices.
After graduating from Lehigh, Tyler Kelly spent
seven months in Singapore serving as a research
lead for The Conference Board. In that time, he
gained invaluable experience in international
business. Certain key factors must be kept in mind
when conducting business in Asia.
3. Tyler Kelly - Conducting Business in
Asia
Question #1: What is the main difference between
conducting business in Asia and in the United
States?
Answer #1: The Eastern culture focuses on protocol
and places great importance on honor and respect.
Americans tend to be more lighthearted and open-
minded, and Asians tend to be more formal in their
business dealings.
4. Tyler Kelly - Conducting Business in
Asia
Question #2: What are a few of the cultural
differences?
Answer #2: The cultural differences vary,
depending on the country. For example, certain
numbers mean distinct things to the Chinese, and
the Japanese often begin business relationships by
going out for dinner and drinks. In Thailand,
business people do not shake hands; instead, they
place their hands with the palms facing together in
front of their faces and bow.
5. Tyler Kelly - Conducting Business in
Asia
Question #3: Is it useful to enlist the help of locals?
Answer #3: Some business people find it helpful to
collaborate with a native who speaks the language
and understands the culture when conducting
meetings or negotiating deals. Although some
Americans may think they understand the rules,
they may not understand all the nuances or
subtleties that a native comprehends.
