When Traveling Abroad For Business, Avoid Falling Into the Ugly American Trap.

By JulieMoline

The stereotype of the Ugly American has been firmly entrenched since the book of the same name was published in 1958. Loud, boorish and an arrogant know-it-all, the Ugly American is not only offensive, but his behavior can also botch a business deal faster than you can say, “Yankee, go home.” How can international business travelers keep faux pas at bay? Frequent international traveler Scott Greenlee, 2006 executive vice president for Junior Chamber International, offers the following suggestions.

Follow the Golden Rule. “With everyone from passport control officers, your hotel clerk, your colleague’s assistant and your taxi driver, be polite and respectful.”

Familiarize yourself with your destination. “Research the country’s history and business climate before you go,” Greenlee says. “Showing an interest in other cultures is definitely not Ugly American behavior.”

Other experts on business protocol suggest studying how companies are structured, whether decisions are made from the top down or as a team, and how business relationships are nurtured. Read up on local etiquette—whether it’s appropriate to use first names, what is considered a reasonable business gift, how to dress and how important it is to be on time.

Never pass yourself off as an expert if you’re not one. “When you don’t know something, ask questions, solicit advice and be genuine,” Greenlee says. Boasting and bluffing play right into the Ugly American stereotype.

Avoid discussing religion or politics. “This is wise wherever you travel,” Greenlee says, “no matter what’s going on in Washington.”

Slow down. “Americans are perceived to be workaholics, working long hours and on weekends,” Greenlee says. No matter how eager you are to get as much done as possible on a business trip, quietly follow the local customs about the length of the workday.

For more ways to counter anti-American sentiment, the nonprofit organization Business for Diplomatic Action Inc. has published the World Citizens Guide for business executives. See www.worldcitizensguide.org.

Julie Moline is a freelance writer, editor and editorial consultant in New York City.