2025届高考英语拓展资源——西方国家介绍 课件

Unit 5 Saudi Arabia Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Important religious rules Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia the Gulf to the East and the Red Sea to the West Intersection of Asia, Africa and Europe Vision 2030 & National Transformation Plan 2020 Energy security, production capacity cooperation, infrastructure, finance, etc., the promising areas Word Bank oil reserves 石油储备 financial district 金融区 empowerment n. 赋权 municipal election 市政选举 preside v. 主持 管理 demographic 人口统计数据 Shura Council 沙特阿拉伯协商会议 interlocutor n. 谈话者 对话者 dichotomy n. 二分法，一分为二 Guiding Questions 1.What is the largest country in the Middle East? 2.What has shaped Saudi people’s culture, art and tradition? 3.What is the aim of the education system in Saudi Arabia ? 4.What are the main functions of social service system ? 5.What kind of areas are women highly active in? 1.What is the largest country in the Middle East? Saudi Arabia 2.What has shaped Saudi people’s culture, art and tradition? The Islamic heritage 3.What is the aim of the education system in Saudi Arabia ? To ensure that students are prepared for joining and contributing to the modern-day work field. 4.What kind of areas are women highly active in? To improve the living standard and quality of life for citizens and to provide care and assistance for the disabled and those in need. Part 2 Overview Country profile The official name:The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia The official language: Arabic The currency:Saudi riyal (SAR) The capital city:Riyadh Country profile Located on the Arabian Peninsula The largest country in the Arab world An area of about 2.25 million square kilometers, with a population of about 32 million (April 2019) Country profile The Holy Land of Haram(in Mecca) The Holy Land of Nabawi(in Medina) the Land of the Two Holy Mosques Country profile Launched a fresh economic project with an ambitious Vision 2030 Bilateral economic cooperation project agreements during the Saudi-China Investment Forum in 2019. Country profile The educational system in three levels Free education at all levels Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Dining Manner Business dress code Communication Punctuality Gift giving Business Cards Dining Manner Forbidden eating pork and drinking alcohol Accept at least some beverages Use your right hand only Not to eat up everything Leave shortly after dinner. Business Dress Code The dress code stricter than in other countries Follow appropriately for business meetings Modest in line with the Islamic law Conservative and traditional colors Communication English widely used in business Avoid individual attention Being patient important Ask open-ended questions Volume differences between men and women Business Cards Business cards usually exchanged; not a must English on one side and Arabic on the other Hand over or receive with the right hand Study before putting it away Punctuality Time concept is massively different from that in Western cultures Appreciated for earlier arrival Gift-giving Gift giving appreciated; not required. Gifts only to close friends. Avoid extravagant or expensive gifts. Alcohol, pork, and perfume with alcohol not allowed Greeting Culture Stand at a reasonable distance and maintain eye contact in meeting Initial business talks help Have some small talk Be patient and give answers Structure and Hierarchy Hierarchical in business Clear dichotomy between subordinates and managers Importance of agreed deadlines. An essential role of age in business Working Hours Friday and Saturday weekend Only few holidays During Ramadan, business slows down and offices closed early Muslims abstain Appointment Culture Necessary appointments Avoid five daily prayer times and religious holidays. Appointment before the noon prayer in the morning or after lunch. Meeting Culture Business meetings at a leisurely pace The proceedings of business meeting not well-organized Address Saudis by their position and profession. Business Negotiation Remain calm and avoid losing temper Keep the main part short Avoid hyperbole and flashy tricks Mutual trust on contracts.   Working Relationships Trust: an essential part in business culture. Respect and friendship are the values Mutual benefit and trust to reinforce cultural values Pitfall 1 Drink alcohol Alcohol strictly forbidden Even if a little bit tipsy Pitfall 2 Eat Pork Saudi Arabia’s constitution and laws on The Quran (可兰经). All pork products banned Pitfall 3 Touch nose as a joke Greeting by touching nose among intimate Saudi men Imply mutual trust and respect in the friendship. A ritual only among close friends Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business enquiry letter Detailed information of the meeting: It’s important to mention the specific date for the appointment. You also need to give the exact time and place for the meeting. Purpose of the meeting: You need to include the purpose of the meeting and why you want to meet with each other. The reader should have a specific reason to find. Contact information: You should also include your contact information. Readers can use these contacts to ask for further information or clear up doubts if they have any. You can provide your name, address, phone number and email address. Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 2 Singapore Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Word tips good-luck charm n. 带来好运的护身符 Pagoda Street 宝塔街 Buddha Tooth Relic Temple 佛牙寺 Kampong Glam 甘榜格南 ( 新加坡穆斯林聚居区) hawker n. 小贩 quay n. 码头 Questions 1. Why is Singapore easy to explore? 2. What have the historic shop houses in Chinatown been transformed into? 3. Which three major ethnic groups are mentioned in the video? 4. What can unite all Singaporeans? Why is Singapore easy to explore? Singapore is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in the world, and nothing is more than an hour away from the central business district. What have the historic shop houses in Chinatown been transformed into? Restaurants, boutique hotels and gift shops. Which three major ethnic groups are mentioned in the video? Chinese, Malays, and Indians. What can unite all Singaporeans? Food. Part 2 Overview Country profile Official name - The Republic of Singapore Official languages - English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil Currency - Singapore dollar (SGD 新加坡元) Capital city - Singapore Country profile Most Singaporeans are bilingual. The most commonly spoken language in the country is English. Country profile Singapore is a sovereign island nation in Southeast Asia. Singapore is a prosperous, modern and clean country. Singapore’s population is mainly made up of Chinese, Malays and Indians. Different ethnic groups see themselves as an important part of Singapore’s pluralist (多元主义的) society. Country profile Located about 137 kilometres north of the Equator (赤道), Singapore lies at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Its territory consists of one main island and 63 other islets. Although Singapore’s history dates back thousands of years, modern Singapore was founded in 1819 by Sir Stanford Raffles as a trading post for the British Empire. Kiasu Kiasu is a Hokkien (闽南语) word that literally means “fear of losing out”. The concept of kiasu refers to the fact that Singaporeans want to have the best, be the best, come first and never lose. It reflects the importance Singaporeans place on competitiveness and a strong work ethic. Concept of Face Losing face can have a negative impact on one’s family and other social groups to which one belongs, as well as one’s reputation, credibility and authority. To avoid losing face, Singaporeans control their behaviour and emotions in public without openly confronting or criticising others, and they adopt an indirect style of communication. avoid losing face Cultural diversity With its ethnic Chinese, Malay and Indian communities and migrant workers, Singapore values the diversity of its people and emphasizes the importance of accepting differences. Singaporean society accepts religious and racial differences, and customs and traditions are respected. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business knowledge Business etiquette Business practices Table manners Malays in Singapore are largely Muslims. For a Muslim, meat will be strictly halal ( 清真的，按伊斯兰教教规宰牲的). Malays traditionally eat with the right hand. The left hand is used for bodily hygiene and is generally not used to touch food. Indians in Singapore who practise Hinduism (印度教) or Sikhism (锡克教) avoid beef and eat a typical vegetarian diet. Some also eat with their hands, and the rule of the right hand applies here as well. Dress code Most Singaporeans prefer business casual wear. On formal business occasions, men are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts and ties. Depending on the occasion, a jacket may also be required. Women can pair a long-sleeved top with an over-the-knee skirt or a mid-length dress. Some women may also like to wear summer shirt dresses. The key is to appear fresh, competent and professional. Communication implicit not outspoken Facial expressions, tone of voice, intonation, and posture are important ways to understand how someone is really feeling. Business cards In Singapore, the best way to exchange business cards is with both hands. Do not put the business card you have received in your back pocket, since this is a sign of disrespect in Singapore. Also, when someone offers you a business card, do not write on it in their presence. Writing on business cards is usually considered disrespectful. Punctuality In Singapore, punctuality is elevated to a higher level where being on time for meetings and notifying others of any expected delays are key. Being late for business appointments is regarded as an insult. Gift-giving It should be noted that the Singaporean government officials and government employees are not allowed to accept gifts. It is illegal for them to do so. In daily life, gift-giving can still be a minefield because of the cultural differences between different ethnic groups in Singapore. Don’t wrap gifts in white, as that symbolises mourning, and don’t give them with your left hand. when a Singaporean business partner invites you to a social event, it’s okay to bring a token gift like a bottle of wine. If your host abstains from alcohol for religious or other reasons, bring a box of chocolates. Don’t bring gifts without doing your research first. Greetings Singaporeans are generally very formal when it comes to introductions. The standard greeting is a firm handshake,. The elders or people of the highest status introduce themselves first. You may notice that Malay Singaporeans greet each other with a handshake before brief ly placing their palms over their own hearts. This is a cultural greeting that you aren’t expected to emulate (效仿) if you’re not of Malay heritage. It’s hard to figure out all the complicated introductions in Singapore. The best thing to do is wait and see what the other person does, and then follow suit. Appointments In Singapore, business appointments should be made at least two weeks in advance. It is better to send a list of the names and the titles of those who will be participating in the meeting. Also, as mentioned before, it’s important to be punctual. Business negotiations Singaporeans love to bargain, but this does not mean that it’s polite to raise your voice to bargain. For Singaporeans, business negotiations are a slow, deliberate process that allows the relationship to develop. It’s important not to lose patience when working out the details of a business arrangement. Throughout the negotiation process, you should show respect to the elders and the top management, as status and rank are very important. You should also realise that business decisions are usually made by consensus because the interests of the group are more important than those of the individual. Working relationships Influenced by the Asian philosophy of building good relationships before doing business, Singaporean business people tend to be cautious about personal relationships and like to make sure they are doing business with the right people. Therefore, you should try to establish a good and sincere relationship with Singaporeans to prove your competence and good character. Networking channels Professional business networking is an essential part of doing business in Singapore, as is building personal relationships with associates and potential business partners. Parties, professionally organised conferences, seminars, meetings, training events and even luncheons are great opportunities to socialise in Singapore. Some of the best opportunities to network can be found through these channels: Magazines about marketing or human resources usually offer information about excellent conferences that allow ample time for networking. Networking channels Marketing agencies often put on events with fascinating guest speakers to allow you to meet people from other agencies, clients, and people who are interested in networking and hearing the speakers. Often the event is held at the venue of the agency so that you can get immersed in their world too. There are also many alumni events in Singapore for people who graduated from the same university. Pitfall 1 Litter in Singapore. Singapore is known for being very clean. It is important to note that in Singapore, people take the law very seriously, down to the smallest of offences, such as littering. Because of this, thousands of people either get fined or penalised for littering. Pitfall 2 Underestimate the power of social media in Singapore Most Singaporeans are active social media users. Make sure you use social media to your advantage in business. Dismissing social media as frivolous (无意义的) will not win you respect. Pitfall 3 Connect to someone else’s Wi-Fi. Connecting to other people’s Wi-Fi, even if unlocked, is considered hacking in Singapore. According to Singapore’s Computer Misuse and Cybersecurity Act, the penalty for such offence is up to three years in jail or a fine of $10,000. Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business invitation letter 1 Give reasons for your business invitation. You want your business partners to be prepared. Mention the reason or subject for your invitation. You can say “As …, we would like to invite you to join us in …”. 2 Specify detailed information such as time, date, location, and duration. To make sure your invited partner will be in the right place at the right time, include the details of the event. You can use sentences like “We are giving a luncheon at … (place) at … (time) on … (date) to introduce …”. If you don’t have a set plan, give your potential guests options to choose from instead of asking “What works best for you?”. This makes it easier for them to decide and will get you a faster response. Writing a business invitation letter 3 Extend a warm welcome. Let your guests know that they are welcomed and their presence is important to you. You can use expressions like “Your presence in this … will be highly appreciated”, “We would be delighted if you could attend”, “We would be honoured to have you here with us”. Writing a business invitation letter 4 Request an RSVP. Have you ever sent out a meeting invitation letter, expecting your guests to show up, only to find that they didn’t plan to attend? You can avoid this situation by adding an RSVP option to your invitation letter. You can use phrases like “Please confirm by …”. 5 Close with thanks. Thank the guests in advance to show them that you are really anticipating their presence at the event. You can use phrases like “Thank you” or “Looking forward to seeing you”. Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 4 Kazakhstan Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Brief Introduction The Belt and Road initiative and China-Kazakhstan cooperation Cross-border connectivity The world's biggest landlocked country Key hub on Eurasia continent Word Tips steppe n. （亚洲、东南欧和西伯利亚等地的）干草原 indomitable a. 不屈不挠的 nomadic a. 游牧的 Eurasia 欧亚大陆 valiant a. 勇敢的 Akorda 哈萨克斯坦总统府 Almaty 阿拉木图（哈萨克斯坦前首都） mosque n. 清真寺 synagogue n. 犹太会堂 UN Rio+20 Conference 联合国“里约＋20”峰会（2012 年6月在巴西里约热内卢举行的联合国可持续发展会议） landlocked a. （国家等）陆围的 Questions 1 What symbolises the nomadic freedom of Kazakhstan? 2 What is Kazakhstan known for? 3 What natural beauty does Kazakhstan boast? 4 What initiative has Kazakhstan taken to utilize sustainable energy? What symbolises the nomadic freedom of Kazakhstan? The wild horses and endless steppe. What was Kazakhstan known for ? Historically Kazakhstan was known for agriculture, producing metals, coal, oil and livestock products. Today it is known for its abundant natural resources. What natural beauty does Kazakhstan boast? Emerald green pine forests and miles of deep canyons. What initiative has Kazakhstan taken to utilize sustainable energy? The country has been developing wind, solar and other alternative energy technologies. It has also taken the green bridge initiative. Part 2 Overview Country profile Official name – the Republic of Kazakhstan Official language - Kazakh, Russian Currency - Tenge (KZT ) Capital city - Nur-sultan Country profile The ninth largest country Isolated space in central Asia Long and rich history: nomadic civilization to modern nation-state Kazakhs, the major ethnic An agricultural and an industrial living due to ethnic fusion. Abundance of natural resources Country profile Reforms after 1991 independence economic decline Major generation of electricity: fossil fuels Highly energy-intensive economy in 2020 Struggles for a balance between industry and agriculture Key cultural concepts Hospitality Importance of tradition Religion Hospitality Hospitality and generosity, indispensable part of nomadic tradition “Dastarkhan”— traditional feast Respect their gathering enjoyments High Value for Tradition Passed down orally by ancestors Strong elements today despite of historical lost Family—the core part of society Respect and appreciation are important. Religion Two religions: Islam and Russian Orthodox Church Two awareness: healthy balance, cultural differences and sensitivities Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Greetings Dress code Table manners Communication Greetings Generally a gentle handshake with both hands Differs between men and women due to religion Maintain eye contact Handshaking before leaving and one time in a day Company status reflection Dress Code Men: suits or ties and jackets, pointy shoes Women: suit or dress and top, stilettos Clean, polished and proper shoes are important. Communication Relations and face are important—the same as some other Asian countries. Indirect and subtle speaking habits Might act aggressive while making points Table Manners Dining: the door to other meetings No rush and mingle people aimed Respect eating habit and food choice, e.g. horse meat Symbolic meanings of foods. Leave food on plate and use right hand only Cakes or sweet pastries, etc. as small gifts Business practices Structure and Hierarchy in Kazakh companies Meetings Business negotiations Languages Working relationships Structure and Hierarchy in Kazakh Companies Strict and vertical structure, similar to some Asian countries Key decision maker: highest executive Meeting Rules Meetings with similar level partners Small talks with snacks as the beginning Long time meeting in general Pay attention to gestures and undertones Avoid prayer days especially with business partners Business negotiations Unstructured and open, lively and participatory Love arguing and debating Never against seniority openly Be reasonable Long-term oriented and centralized decision-making Languages Hot topic for choosing Russian or English Confirm spoken language in advance Two languages on two sides of the business card Working relationships Close relationships—key to business transactions Tend to know somebody before interacting Getting along is time-consuming but useful Pitfall 1 Leave the business meetings or discussions without shaking hands. Handshaking in proper situations: before leaving, at workplace or get to others’ home, etc. Appropriate handshaking way with women partners Pitfall 2 Pass something to your Kazakh business partners using your left hand. Decent behaviors and ethnicity respect Avoid using left hand when facing Muslim partners. Pitfall 3 Chat with Kazakhs about funny stories concerning their culture. Extremely rude and disrespectful Do not show sincerity via cultural jokes. Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business notices and announcements Detailed information of the meeting: It’s important to mention the specific date for the appointment. You also need to give the exact time and place for the meeting. Purpose of the meeting: You need to include the purpose of the meeting and why you want to meet with each other. The reader should have a specific reason to find. Contact information: You should also include your contact information. Readers can use these contacts to ask for further information or clear up doubts if they have any. You can provide your name, address, phone number and email address. Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 8 Poland Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Word tips Warsaw 华沙（波兰首都和最大城市） panoramic a. 全景的 obliterate vt. 消灭；摧毁 Chopin 肖邦（波兰作曲家、钢琴家） savory a. 美味的；可口的 Guiding Questions 1 When did Warsaw become the capital of Poland? 2 What is a typically convenient way to get around in Warsaw? 3 Who is Poland’s most famous composer? 4 Where can we find the proud heritage of Warsaw? Guiding Questions 1. When did Warsaw become the capital of Poland? Warsaw has been the capital of Poland since 1596. Guiding Questions 3 Who is Poland’s most famous composer? Poland’s most famous composer is Fryderyk Chopin. Guiding Questions 4 Where can we find the proud heritage of Warsaw? Now their proud heritage can be seen throughout the city in the landmark buildings, squares and streets. Part 2 Overview Country File of Poland Official name - Republic of Poland Official language - Polish Currency - Zloty (PLN) Capital city – Warsaw Country File of Poland Poland is located in the heart of the European continent, at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe. Poland borders Germany to the west, the Czech Republic and Slovakia to the south and Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania and Russia to the east and north-east. Poland is the ninth largest country in Europe and the seventh largest in the world. Poland has a mild climate, relatively cold winters and warm summers, and is rich in agricultural and mineral resources. Country File of Poland Poland was One of the first former communist countries to introduce privatization and economic liberalization. It was successful because the Government was able to privatize most small and medium-sized state-owned enterprises and encourage foreign direct investment. Country File of Poland Poland’s main export partners: Germany, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Russia. Poland’s main exports: machinery and transport equipment, intermediate manufactured goods, miscellaneous manufactured goods, foodstuffs and live animals. Country File of Poland Unique history and geography have shaped the customs and distinct personalities of the Polish people. Founded as an independent country in the mid-10th century, Poland reached its political and military zenith in the 16th century, before civil war and external forces provoked partition. Today, Poland has become a culturally rich and proud country, where contemporary and traditional cultures meet. Understanding this unique culture is essential for any successful business in Poland. Identity A characteristic of Polish culture is commitment and participation in the life of the country. Poland is a patriotic nation, and its citizens’ strong sense of community makes it a united nation. After centuries of invasion by their neighbors, Poles proudly maintain their cultural identity intact and value the autonomy they have recently acquired. Relationships As a family-centred society, Poles rely on establishing and maintaining close interpersonal relationships. Given Poland’s history of occupation, outsiders generally have to gain the trust of Polish acquaintances before close relations can be formed. Therefore, when conducting business in Poland, you may find that your Polish colleagues start out in a fairly formal way, and it may take several meetings before a final decision is made. Religion At different times in the history of this country, religion has played a central role in Polish society. Thus, Roman Catholicism is the basis of Polish identity. As one of the most devout countries in Europe, almost the entire population of Poland is Roman Catholic. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Table Manners Business dress code Language matters Personal titles Punctuality Gift giving Face-to-face communication Table Manners Dining etiquette for discussing business: Business lunch or dinner, depending on how good your relationship is with your Polish colleagues, is generally not the time to make business decisions. You need to take your cues from your Polish colleagues. Table Manners Dining etiquette for toasting : The most common toast is to your health. Another popular toast is stola, which means a hundred years old and implies that you should live to be a hundred years old. During the toast, never break eye contact from the moment the glass leaves the table until you put it back in its place. There can be many different toasts throughout the meal; at some point during the meal, you will be asked to toast as a small group, especially if you are toasting in person or as the chief guest. Table Manners Dining etiquette for eating: Don’t start eating until everyone has received their own plate of food and the host invites you to start. The ritual of passing the dishes when eating is to pass all the dishes to your left. Business dress code In Poland, business and work attire tends to be quite formal. Large companies set a dress code for their employees to show respect for their business partners, customers and the public. Small and medium-sized companies often don’t have a formal policy, but will expect you to dress according to your position and work environment. Language matters Poland is a multicultural and multilingual country. Polish is the official language, but due to its proximity to many other countries, most Poles speak more than one language. Russian, German and English are the most dominant foreign languages, while business is usually conducted in English, and the first language of the participants is not Polish. If one wishes to maintain long-term business contacts with Polish companies, it is worthwhile to learn as much Polish as possible for the sake of convenience, as many service providers do not operate in English. Face-to-face communication Poles maintain direct eye contact and need about an arm’s length of personal space to be comfortable. They usually get their thoughts out there and get right to the point. On first meeting, they don’t really joke; joking is reserved for more social situations. Poles don’t normally speak in a loud voice, but they are confident and decisive nonetheless. Face-to-face communication For eye contact, it is definitely not advisable to insist on looking into the distance, as this will make you look less reliable, but you don’t have to look into the eyes of every person you meet. When talking to people, you shouldn’t engage with them. Shake hands when you meet people. Face-to-face communication As for the tone and directness of speech, you should just be “polite”. If you are a woman, you may find that men don’t speak to you as directly as other men do. Some men will feel obligated to shower you with compliments before, during and after a business conversation. They may also avoid swearing in front of you because you are a lady. Gift giving In Poland, gifts are expected at the time of initial business meetings and at business arrangements such as the signing of contracts. Small gifts, such as corporate gifts (without a company logo or brand) or souvenirs representing the country you are visiting, are acceptable. It’s normal to bring some flowers, candy or booze if invited to a business partner’s home. Flowers or wine are the most common choices, but candy is another. Personal titles In initial business contacts, Poles may use each other’s titles or surnames, but after two or three meetings, first names are welcome. When addressing a manager or executive, one should not drop “sir” or “ma’am” and use their title instead, as it is considered rude. Punctuality In general, Poles are considered to be quite punctual. However, people in high positions may be late to meetings to show their status and importance within the company. In a business meeting, it’s best to be on time, although being 15 minutes late can be excused. In social settings, the rules are more lax, and if you are invited to a party, expect to be about 15 minutes late. Business practices structure and hierarchy in Polish companies office culture appointment culture business negotiation working relationships in Poland meeting culture Structure and hierarchy in Polish companies The Polish organization is very respectful of hierarchy and power, with structure and authority coming from the top. Traditionally, decisions are made by the boss, although in some workplaces in Poland, decision-making is very democratic. This hierarchical style is reflected in many Polish business etiquette and environments, including decision-making processes and the use of professional titles. When negotiating, it is advisable to send a representative who is similarly situated to your Polish colleague in terms of age and professional credentials. Office Culture In general, the official hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with no break at noon. However, many international businesses and companies that employ expatriate employees take a more Western approach to working hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointment culture When booking business, it is recommended that you book four to five days in advance and confirm the day before the meeting. Your Polish partner can be very flexible and is often ready to change schedules when necessary. When arranging appointments, keep in mind that Poland is a big country and you need to set aside enough travel time. Make sure you can get to your destination by train or car and know how long it will take to get there. Meeting Culture Business talks usually begin with some small talk to build trust before any specific business negotiations begin. In business meetings, Poles usually get into substantive issues quickly, and the presentation doesn’t need to be fancy, just clear and easy to understand. It is important to bring samples with you when visiting Poland for a presentation, or to send samples to potential buyers/agents via consignment to generate interest. In business talks, Poles are not allowed to conceal their emotions, especially when irritable, frustrated or angry. Business negotiation    Be direct and take every word at face value. Polish businessmen tend to exhibit a rather unusual combination of cultural traits characterized by a relationship-centric approach to business and a transaction-centric approach to business. Maintain eye contact across the negotiating table, eyes straight, not as intense as in the Middle East and Southern Europe, but more direct than in East and Southeast Asia. When dealing with government or the public sector, the negotiation process usually takes longer than when doing business with the private sector. Working relationships When doing business in Poland, it is important to remember the importance of human relationships. Building personal relationships is key to successfully achieving business goals, especially if the business will run for a long time. In the Polish organization, responsibilities and positions are clearly defined. Attention should be paid to seniority, and special attention and respect must be given to both veteran employees and those in senior positions in the company. Relationships are important and anyone doing business in Poland should have a close and trusting relationship with their Polish colleagues, as this is a stepping stone to building strong business relationships. Pitfall 1 Call a Polish person Eastern European. If you look at a map, you’ll see that geographically, Poland, along with countries like Germany, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, Hungary, and Austria, are actually Central European countries. People of these countries prefer to be called Central Europeans, rather than Eastern Europeans. Pitfall 2 Skip out on learning a few Polish. Never underestimate how a few words of Polish can help you on your trip to Poland. Some useful Polish words are: Thank you - Dziekuje Please - Prosze Hello - Cześć If you know a little Polish, it can really be an eye opener. Pitfall 3 Eat less in dinner. When you go to a Polish dinner, be sure to go on an empty stomach because there will be plenty of food on offer. Your hosts may be a little upset if you don’t sample all the different dishes they have prepared. Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business report Structure and useful expressions Introduction It is the first part of a report. This will frame the rest of the report by providing background information, the purpose of the report and its scope. Facts and findings This section will present the results of your research clearly and concisely. Make sure to cover all the main points set out in the brief. Conclusion and recommendation This is the last main section of the report. The conclusion section should summarize what you have learned from the report. If you have been asked to do so, you should also recommend potential courses of action based on your conclusions. Writing a business report Introduction The purpose of this report is to … The objective of this report is to … The aim of this report is to … This report aims to … Facts and findings According to the recent market research / investigation / survey / the chart above / the table above, … The recent visit / investigation / survey showed that … The table / chart above tells us that … Writing a business report From the chart, we find / learn / notice that … Conclusion According to the findings above, it can be concluded that … Therefore, it can be concluded that … Recommendation The following are the recommendations … It is recommended that … Based on the conclusion / analysis above, we recommend that … With reference to the facts above, the following recommendations can be made … Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 1 Thailand Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Word tips demeanour n. 举止；外表；风度 tropical a. 热带的 infrastructure n. 基础设施 destination n. 目的地 peninsula n. 半岛 plain n. 平原 Bangkok 曼谷（泰国首都和最大城市） plateau n. 高原 Chao Phraya River 昭披耶河 Mekong River 湄公河 tributary n. 支流 Questions 1 What is Thailand known as and why? 2 Why does the speaker like Thailand? 3 What is Thailand best known for geographically? 4 Why does the speaker say rivers have a huge impact on life in Thailand? Video What is Thailand known as and why? Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”. This is mainly because of the friendly and cheerful demeanor of the Thai people. Why does the speaker like Thailand? Because Thailand has great people, wonderful scenery, tropical weather year around, many activities, highly developed infrastructure. It is also not an expensive place to travel. What is Thailand best known for geographically? Thailand is best known for its islands and its peninsula with their beaches. Why does the speaker say rivers have a huge impact on life in Thailand? Because the rivers allow for wet rice cultivation. They also serve as major transportation routes throughout the centuries and still do today. Part 2 Overview The Country Profile of Thailand The capital city is Bangkok. Its official name is the Kingdom of Thailand. The official language is Thai. The currency is Baht (THB泰铢). The Country Profile of Thailand Thailand is a country of natural beauty, humid tropical climate and warm hospitality. The Country Profile of Thailand Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. It can be divided into five distinct geographical regions, bordering Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. The capital Bangkok, with a population of over eight million, is the most important city economically and politically. The Country Profile of Thailand Thailand contains more than 30 ethnic groups varying in history, language, religion, appearance, and livelihood. The Thai people account for about 40 percent of the total population of Thailand. The Country Profile of Thailand The Thai economy is heavily dependent on exports. Thailand is the biggest exporter of natural rubber in the world. Thailand’s traditional major markets have been China, Japan, the United States, and the EU. Agriculture is also a major contributor to the Thai economy. Lastly, the massive tourism industry is another powerful economic engine for Thailand. The Country Profile of Thailand Thailand, formerly known as Siam (暹罗), is the only country in Southeast Asia which has remained independent throughout its history. The Country Profile of Thailand Thais are very proud of this and this sense of independence is reflected in their culture. Due to historical factors, Thailand’s neighbouring countries have come under a high degree of foreign influence. While in Thailand, especially in Bangkok, a good balance between foreign cultures and Thai culture can be found almost everywhere. Key cultural concepts Family values Indirectness Hospitality Religion Family values As the cornerstone of Thai society, family is given great value and importance. Families in Thailand are close. In Thailand, it is common to see several generations living under the same roof with the eldest male member being the head of the family. The power structure of the family is also reflected in the business world. The advice of the elders is expected to be heeded without question. Indirectness Being subtle and indirect is an important feature of Thai culture. In communication, a considerable part of the information lies in the underlying messages or non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions, body movements, and gestures. In order not to lose face, Thais tend to avoid direct confrontation. Criticism is best passed on indirectly, and it is best to avoid displaying strong emotions publicly. Behaviour like raising your voice, getting angry or insulting others can lead your Thai business partners to think negatively of you. Hospitality It is the nature of Thais to be warm and hospitable, both in social and professional settings. Religion Most Thais practise Buddhism. You should treat images of Buddha with extreme respect whenever you see one or are invited to temples by your Thai business partners. There are some important Buddhist festivals in Thailand such as Makha Bucha Day ( 玛迦普差节) and Asahna Bucha Day ( 三宝佛节). Businesses are usually closed for holidays during these festivals. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business knowledge Business etiquette Business practices Important religious rules If you accidentally point at your Thai business partner using any part of your foot, or show the sole of your foot, or use the foot to move anything, you would be considered rather rude and disrespectful. Important religious rules Also, be sure to take your shoes off when entering a Thai business partner’s home, places of worship and some particular hotel rooms. Important religious rules Always use your right hand or both hands to pass or receive any object. Pointing with the index finger(食指) is considered extremely rude. Instead, using your chin(下巴) or whole hand or flat palm(平手掌) is the right thing to do. Important religious rules You should treat images of Buddha with extreme respect whenever you see one or are invited to temples by your Thai business partners. The intercultural business etiquette Greetings Business cards Names and titles Patience Punctuality Dress code Gift giving Table manners Greetings A common gesture traditionally used when greeting someone is the wai. This gesture is performed by putting your hands together and bowing slightly. The higher the hand is placed, the more respectful it is. Greetings Sawasdee khrap Sawasdee kah The word “sawasdee”(泰语“你好/再会”,读作[sàwàtdiː])means hello, which you may hear quite often said by Thais, and occasionally it also means goodbye. Business cards In Thailand, business cards are also an important part of its business etiquette. As in many Asian countries, a lot of importance is placed on business cards. A high-quality business card is an important asset (有利条件) in Thailand and should be exchanged when initiated by the host. Names and titles It’s important to note that Thais tend to use first names rather than last names even when using Mr. and Miss. Most Thai people have nicknames – a shorter and easier-to-remember name given by their parents. Patience Before making a decision, Thais often need to consult with several people. Sometimes, it is unlikely that any decisions will be made in a first meeting. Thus, patience is an essential quality when you conduct business negotiations with Thais. Punctuality Punctuality is appreciated and as foreigner business contacts, you are expected to arrive on time to meetings and social gatherings. In formal situations, it is better to arrive a few minutes earlier for a meeting rather than just on time. It is advisable to check the traffic situation in large cities beforehand, especially in Bangkok, as the time it takes to get from one place to another can sometimes be unpredictable. Dress code Although the business outfit is not strictly formal, it is important to wear suitable attire (服装) when invited to formal business meetings in Thailand. Tight fitting and sleeveless clothes should be avoided. Shoes need to be taken off in some offices and homes; therefore it is a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Smart casual is acceptable for business social events. Gift-giving Giving gifts to your business partners is highly encouraged in Thailand, but there are certain rules to follow. It is important to both give and receive gifts with both hands. It is considered rude to open a gift in the presence of the gift giver. Table manners If you are invited to a business talk in a restaurant, make sure you accept the invitation. However, there are certain rules that you must follow. The most senior person usually sits at the head of the table and you should not take your seat before they have sat down first. Sometimes shoes should be removed when you are invited to some restaurants. A Tour in Thai Companies Thai companies’ structure and hierarchy Appointments Business negotiations Communication Business relationships Structure and hierarchy in Thai companies Thai companies have a culture which emphasises hierarchy and respect for the elders, thus senior staff and executives are obeyed and respected. This business culture bears some of the characteristics of the working practice in other Asian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia and India. Structure and hierarchy in Thai companies In many Thai companies, a vertical structure is adopted, with power coming from the top. Discussions are mostly led by people at the highest levels and it is the responsibility of the top management to supervise and look after the subordinates. Appointments Business appointments are generally scheduled well in advance and confirmed the day beforehand. It is a good idea to consult the company you are visiting about the traffic conditions before you leave for the appointment. If you find yourself late for the appointment on the way, it is a good idea to call and inform the people you are about to meet. Negotiations Despite the somewhat conservative nature of Thai culture, small talk is actually expected at the beginning of a business meeting. Diving straight into negotiation without having a little friendly chat is viewed as bad manners. Therefore, informal conversations before and after business meetings are common and cannot be ignored. Communication The use of English during international business exchange is common, especially if your Thai business counterparts are from large companies in Bangkok, where presentations, proposals and contracts in English are acceptable. If language is an issue, a business interpreter should be provided, especially when dealing with traditional Thai firms. Communication Frankness is not appreciated as indirectness is highly valued in Thai culture. Usually, when a direct, confrontational type of statement can’t be avoided, it is advisable to begin with something like “if you will allow me to be very frank”, and this kind of wording will excuse the occasional blunt statement. Communication There are two ways to express “Yes” in Thailand. The word “Chai” in Thai language means “Yes” , But the words “Khrap”(male) and “Kha”(female) mean “yes I follow”. Business relationships Thais may ask for personal information such as your age, marital status and educational background to help them understand your status in society and build a sense of familiarity with you. It is also commonplace to be invited for a round of golf or some other kind of social activity. Just accept the invitation and take it as an opportunity to forge a successful partnership with your Thai business partners. Pitfall 1 DON’T make joke of or criticise the Thai King or Queen. Don’t badmouth the Thai King or Queen. Patriotism (爱国心) and national pride are part of the Thai psyche (精神), and the royal family are extremely respected. Saying anything bad about the monarchy is an extremely dangerous thing to do in Thai land. Not only will it of fend your potential business partners, but it could also put you behind bars. Can you make fun of the Thai King and Queen? Pitfall 2 DON’T touch your Thai business partner’s head because in the Buddhist tradition, the head is considered to be the most important and holy part of a person’s body. Touching your Thai business partner’s head will cause great offense. Can you touch your Thai business partner’s head? Pitfall 3 DON’T wear your shoes while walking into the house when invited into your Thai business partner’s home. If you do so, you can lose all the respect and closeness you have worked so hard to build with your Thai business partners. Can you go into a Thai business partner’s house with your shoes on? Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business memo A business memo usually begins with a header section listing the recipient and other details in the following format. To: Include the name and title of each recipient From: Include the name and title of the sender. Date: Put down the full date (eg 30 June 2017). Writing a business memo Subject: This is a phrase to tell the reader what the memo is about. Body: The body of a memo should be short and concentrate on one idea in each paragraph. Carbon copy: This is written as c.c. for short. It lists the names of the people who are also receiving the memo. Useful expressions Please be informed that … Please note that … Please be sure to have the forms filled in and returned to the Administrative Office by … It has come to my attention that … This month’s staff meeting is to be held on … I am writing to enquire about … The board urgently requires feedback on … We need an update on … In response to your request, I am writing to provide you with information on … I am writing to apply for a … I / We would like to … Useful expressions Please be informed that … Please note that … Please be sure to have the forms filled in and returned to the Administrative Office by … It has come to my attention that … This month’s staff meeting is to be held on … I am writing to enquire about … The board urgently requires feedback on … We need an update on … In response to your request, I am writing to provide you with information on … I am writing to apply for a … I / We would like to … 学无止境 Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 6 The UAE Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in The UAE As China’s most important trade partner in the Arab world, the UAE is responsible for 28 per cent of total non-oil trade between China and the region. Bilateral trade between China and the UAE will continue to surge in the coming years on the back of strong relations between the two countries, specifically under the Belt and Road Initiative. Lead-in Watch this video animation to find out some interesting facts about UAE and make notes about the following questions. 1. How many states consist of the whole UAE federation? 2. Is Dubai the capital of UAE? 3. When was UAE established? 4. What is the national bird of UAE? Lead-in Lead-in How many states consist of the whole UAE federation? Lead-in Is Dubai the capital of UAE? Lead-in When was UAE established? In 1971. Lead-in What is the national bird of UAE? Part 2 Overview the Country File of UAE Its official name is United Arab Emirates. The official language is Arabic. The currency is Emirati Dirham (AED). And the capital city is Abu Dhabi. the Country File of UAE the Country File of UAE the Country File of UAE the Country File of UAE The UAE has also adopted substantial measures to diversify its economy, with most part of its GDP now developed by aspects other than petroleum. For instance, manufacturing and energy industry have influential factors in that effort. Some new clear energy programs and nuclear power reactors will be built by 2020. the Country File of UAE the Country File of UAE Islam is the official and most popular religion of the UAE and permeates almost every aspect of life. Hence, knowing Islam will be of great benefit to your business if you start it in this area. While the country’s culture revolves around Islam as a religion, other religions are accepted and respected - here you’ll find a dynamic of schools, cuisines and cultural influences from different parts of the world. the Country File of UAE Key cultural concepts Religion family Hospitality Religion Family Hospitality Hospitality plays a critical role in the UAE’s culture and applies to both social and professional environments. Guests are greeted with great hospitality. At home, it usually comes in the form of a traditional feast of Emirati cuisine, especially during the holidays. While on business occasions, meetings are almost always accompanied by traditional Arabic coffee and pastries. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Dining Manner Business dress code Language & Communication Personal titles Punctuality Business Cards First meet-up Gift giving Dining manners Dining manners Dining manners If you are invited to a Muslim business partner’s house for dinner, be sure to take your shoes off before entering and set them aside in an orderly manner in the appropriate place. Business dress code Language & Communication What’s more, religious beliefs are often mentioned in dialogues such as the classic “God willing”. In the UAE, English is widely used in business transactions. First meet-up The first meeting is all about relationship-building and developing trust. Therefore, it’s vital to get to know the individual with whom you’re doing business. Appropriate questions include “How many children do you have?” and “Where do they study?” Business card Business card Personal titles Punctuality Emiratis have the same attitudes toward time as the Saudis. In the UAE, relationships are prior to schedules and punctuality. It is not unexpected that your Emirati counterparts are late but you should arrive on time. Gift-giving In the UAE, it would be proper to give a small token or gift to your business partner upon introduction during the first business meeting. Pitfall 1 Can you ask direct questions about the female members of Emirati’s family? DON’T ask about a person’s wife or daughters directly. It is polite to enquire about a person’s family or health, but specific questions about any female members are not allowed. Family life which involves female members is kept extremely private. Pitfall 2 Can you schedule business meeting without considering local religions? DON’T arrange business meetings during prayer times or any of the major Islamic holidays such as Ramadan or Eid-al-adha （古尔邦节）. These are extremely critical periods for the majority of Emiratis who are Muslims. Generally speaking, business is held during these occasions as it is a time for reflection and celebration. Pitfall 2 Does silence mean powerless? DON’T assume that the person who asks the most questions in meetings holds the highest position. In the UAE, this person is viewed as the least respected or least important. The decision maker is generally a silent observer and will only speak when discussions come to an end. Part 4 Career skills Writing a complaint letter Detailed information of the meeting: It’s important to mention the specific date for the appointment. You also need to give the exact time and place for the meeting. Purpose of the meeting: You need to include the purpose of the meeting and why you want to meet with each other. The reader should have a specific reason to find. Contact information: You should also include your contact information. Readers can use these contacts to ask for further information or clear up doubts if they have any. You can provide your name, address, phone number and email address. Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 9 South Africa Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in South Africa South Africa was among the first African countries to sign cooperation documents on the Belt and Road Initiative with China. The country has been actively participating in the Belt and Road construction to boost regional integration and increase connectivity. Word Tips Mediterranean a. 地中海的 scrub n. 灌木丛 vegetation n. 植被 deciduous a. 落叶的 veldt n. （南非高原上的）草原 ostrich n. 鸵鸟 herbivore n. 食草动物 bison n. 野牛 carnivore n. 食肉动物 cheetah n. 猎豹 omnivore n. 杂食动物 sanctuary n. （野生动物的）保护区 Guiding Questions Watch a video about South Africa and make notes about the following questions. 1 What is the location of South Africa? 2 What is South Africa known for? 3 What are the trees found in the south of the country near Cape Town? 4 What is the largest bird in the world? 5 What kinds of animals are found in the veldt grasslands? Video Guiding Questions 1.What is the location of South Africa? It is located in the southern part of the African continent. Guiding Questions 2 What is South Africa known for? It is known for minerals like gold and diamonds as well as Wildlife Resources. Guiding Questions 3 What are the trees found in the south of the country near Cape Town? Trees like olive, spruce and pine are found in the south near Cape Town. Guiding Questions 4. What is the largest bird in the world? The African ostrich is the largest bird in the world, growing to a gigantic 2.5 meter and winged at 150 kilograms. Guiding Questions 5 What kinds of animals are found in the veldt grasslands? Herbivores like bison and elephants, carnivores like cheetahs and lions, and omnivores like baboons are found in the veldt grasslands. Part 2 Overview Country Profile  South Africa has a temperate and pleasant climate, with warm, sunny days for most of the year. Country Profile  Country Profile  South African economy is sensitive to global economic conditions. Main exports: Precious and base metals, agricultural products and military equipment Main imports: chemicals, chemical products and motor vehicles Country Profile  Country Profile  South Africa is one of the most promising and dynamic emerging market economies in the world. Country Profile  South Africa is often referred to as the “Land of the Rainbow”. Country Profile  African food is vegetable-centric and maize is viewed as an important staple, often in the form of porridge, known as “Mealie pap”. Family In South Africa, the nuclear family, along with the extended family or tribe, is vital to the survival of individuals and has significant influences on their values and behavior. Time White South Africans: a more formal view of time Black South Africans: do things a little slower Communication Styles In general, South Africa’s communication style varies greatly depending on the cultural origins of the individual. English-speaking South Africans: more conservative way of communicating People from Afrikaans backgrounds: more direct and clearer in their communication Communication Styles Establishing personal relationships and building mutual trust are two vital factors in South African business communication culture. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Table Manners Dress code Gift giving Punctuality Personal titles Dining Manner Dining Manner Dress Code Dress Code Personal Titles Punctuality Throughout South African business life, punctuality is highly appreciated when attending a meeting, while black people are more flexible in their timing. Gift Giving Greetings Structure And Hierarchy In South African Companies Although South Africa is a somewhat egalitarian society, business people in the country have a great deal of respect for senior managers and colleagues who have gained positions through hard work and perseverance. Appointments speeding up the business process Appointments get an appointment a month or two in advance, and call the day before to confirm Appointments Meetings Meetings Business Negotiation In commercial negotiations in South Africa, reaching general consensus is the overall objective. Business Negotiation Working Relationships Therefore, South Africans tend to share ideas and celebrate success as a whole team rather than an individual. Working Relationships Pitfall 1 It is considered rude to point your index finger at others, and the “V” for victory sign is considered lewd. Never keep your hands in your pockets while having a conversation with others. Any gesture is acceptable. Pitfall 2 Don’t be surprised if your South African business partners ask what may seem to be personal questions about your lifestyle after a relatively brief period of time. South Africans are friendly in nature and they may just want to get to know you better. Seeing personal questions as being inappropriate. Pitfall 3 Rush to make decisions. Don’t show impatience towards slow decision-making. Enforcing deadlines or rushing deals may prove counterproductive. Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business proposal 1. Title page Use the title page to introduce yourself and your business. Be sure to include your name, your company’s name, the date you submitted the proposal, and the name of the client or individual you’re submitting the proposal to. 2. Table of contents A table of contents will let your potential client know exactly what will be covered in the business proposal. If you’re sending your proposal electronically, include a clickable table of contents that will jump to the different sections of your proposal for easy reading and navigation. Writing a business proposal 3. Executive summary The executive summary details exactly why you’re sending the proposal and why your solution is the best one for the prospective client. It outlines the benefits of your company’s products or services, and how they can solve your potential client’s problem. After reading your executive summary, even if they don’t read the full proposal, your prospective client should have a clear idea of how you can help them. Writing a business proposal 4. Statement of the problem or need This is where you provide a summary of the issue impacting the potential client. It provides you with the opportunity to show them you have a clear understanding of their needs and the problem they need to solve. 5. Proposed solution Here’s where you offer up a strategy for solving the problem. Make sure your proposed solution is customised to the client’s needs, so they know you’ve created this proposal specifically for them. Let them know which deliverables you’ll provide, the methods you’ll use, and a timeframe for when they should expect them. Writing a business proposal 6. Qualifications Are you qualified to solve the client’s problem? Why should they trust you? Use this section to communicate why you’re best option for the job. Include case studies of client success stories, mention any relevant awards or accreditations to boost your authority. 7. Pricing Pricing is where things can get a bit tricky, as you don’t want to under-or overprice your product or service. If you’d like to provide the client with a few pricing options for their budget, include an optional fee table. Some proposal software offers responsive pricing tables which allow clients to check the products or services they’re interested in, and the price will automatically adjust. Writing a business proposal 8. Terms and conditions This is where you go into detail about the project timeline, pricing, and payment schedules. It’s essentially a summary of what you and the client are agreeing to if they accept your proposal. Make sure you clear the terms and conditions with your own legal team before sending the proposal to the client. 9. Agreement Include a signature box for the client to sign and let them know exactly what they’re agreeing to when they sign. This is also a chance to include a prompt for the client to reach out to you if they have any unanswered questions you can address. Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 7 Russia Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Word tips vodka n. 伏特加酒（俄罗斯、波兰出产的一种烈酒） territory n. 地区；地方 St. Petersburg 圣彼得堡（俄罗斯波罗的海沿岸城市） Red Square 红场（位于俄罗斯首都莫斯科） the Kremlin 克里姆林宫 quintessential a. 典型的；典范的 the State Hermitage Museum 冬宫博物馆 Caucasus Mountains 高加索山脉（位于欧洲东南部高加索地区） trite a.（话）老一套的 russet a. 黄褐色的；赤褐色的 Guiding Questions 1 Which cities are the must-see destinations in Russia? 2 What can you expect to see when stepping onto Red Square? 3 What is the quintessential Russian experience? 4 What is Russian holiday makers’ favourite place? 5 What is the best way of getting around with many comfortable overnight services between far-flung cities in Russia? Guiding Questions 1. Which cities are the must-see destinations in Russia? Moscow and St. Petersburg. Guiding Questions 2. What can you expect to see when stepping onto red square? The tall towers and imposing walls of the Kremlin and the majestic red brick . Guiding Questions 3. What is the quintessential Russian experience? Visiting a traditional bathhouse. Guiding Questions 4. What is Russian holiday makers’ favorite place? The serene Black Sea coast. Guiding Questions 5. What is the best way of getting around with many comfortable overnight services between far-flung cities in Russia? The extensive train network. Part 2 Overview The Country File of Russia Official name: Russian Federation Official language: Russian Currency: Ruble Capital city: Moscow The Country File of Russia Russia is a country located in Eastern Europe with an extensive territory spanning North Asia. Russia is the ninth most populous country in the world and the most populous country in Europe. The Country File of Russia Because of its geographical location, Russian culture is a melting pot of European and Asian traditions. This diversity can be shown not only in its architecture and art, but in the character and lifestyle of its people. The Country File of Russia Russia is a country of great composers, musicians, ballet dancers and artistic traditions. Concert halls such as the Tchaikovsky Conservatory are ever popular and the Bolshoi and Mariinsky Theatres are among the most important ballet and opera stages in the world. The Country File of Russia Russia’s political system is a federal republic with a semi-presidential system in place since 1993. Key Cultural Concepts Egalitarianism Display of Emotions Collectivism Collectivism Throughout its history, Russia has had a strong spirit of collectivism, which is still reflected in Russian business practices today. Russia’s harsh climatic conditions also mean that cooperation and collaboration, rather than competition, are key to survival. In the Russian culture, interests of the community always stand above personal interests, so that personal plans, aims and interests are easily suppressed. Egalitarianism ‘Egalitarianism’ a social philosophy that supports the elimination of inequality and promotes the equal distribution of benefits. In Russian business terms, this amounts to an important strategy of equality, reciprocity and mutual benefit. Russians have a strong sense of status and believe in common equality. People tend to think of “deals” in terms of equalization of interests. Display of Emotions In Russia, there are good and bad ways of expressing one’s feelings, and it is considered good to pay attention to the way others express their feelings, with more variety of contexts. This is reflected in the richness and breadth of their active and affective verbs. Russians have plenty of language to convey the warmth and unbridled closeness with loved ones, relatives and friends. Part 3 Business Knowledge Table Manners Be aware of your drinking limits. The vodka may be stronger and you should not try to drink more than you can handle. Don’t try to keep up with the locals or you may find yourself in trouble. Politely decline more portions when needed. Russians are great hosts and love to entertain guests in their home. They tend to put more than they can eat on the table to show that they have enough food (with or without it). Guests leave food on their plates as a sign of respect for the host. Toast often, depending on the situation, during a meal. After the toast, most Russians like to clink their glasses together. If you’re drinking something that doesn’t contain alcohol, don’t do it. Business dress code Depending on the type of business, “business attire” in Russia is mainly divided into two main categories: professional and business casual wear. Professional attire is the most conservative type of business attire. A “decent” business person should appear formal and conservative. Business people in Russia usually wear dark (except in the hot summer) suits and expensive shoes. Business casual wear is a looser version of “professional wear,” but that doesn’t mean employees can be absolutely “casual” and some meetings and events still require “professional wear.” Work/life balance Russians value work-life balance, and this may have something to do with not wanting to joke around at work. Since Russians try not to be at work all the time, they tend to be very serious in meetings so that they can spend time with family and friends later. Russians generally don’t linger on the phone after a conversation. Just because you hang up the phone once it’s agreed doesn’t mean the other person is rude. Be flexible In Russia, successful companies are able to adapt quickly to the changing environment. Schedules can change due to weather, long distances, and inconvenient transportation. You may encounter resistance to planning, but your ability to plan and improvise will ensure that you have a back-up plan that will often put you one step ahead of your competitors. Greetings When greeting, shake hands tightly and maintain direct eye contact. Avoid shaking hands and giving things away in houses or rooms across the threshold. When coming and going, it is best to cross the threshold completely before shaking hands with your host. Always take off your gloves when shaking hands. It is considered rude not to do so. Never use first name unless invited, as it is important to respect authority and decorum. You can use “Gospodin” (Mr.) or “Gospozha” (Mrs.) to their last names. However, if you know the other person’s full name, you can use a combination of first and last names. Art of Conversation Russians appreciate foreigners’ interest in Russian, so it’s a good idea to try to learn or at least partially talk to them in their language. Many Russians speak English because they are often taught to speak English in school. Russians love to talk about Russian culture and history. Russian culture and history Art of Conversation Also Russians are very attached to their children, so if you’re a parent, don’t hesitate to show a picture of your child. Avoid talking about such topics as your complaints about Russia, the Holocaust, tsarism and monarchy, conflicts with minorities, etc. the Holocaust, tsarism and monarchy, conflicts with minorities Verbal Communication Oral communication is considered more trustworthy than the written word. Be sure to repeat and confirm verbally after any agreement or written communication. You should also be prepared for silence. There is often a long pause before a response. Don’t interrupt others. Another unique habit of Russians is to take cell phone calls at extraordinary times. For example, they may answer the phone while in a meeting or at dinner. Gift giving It’s hard to do business in Russia without the help of local contacts. To get help, it’s often a good idea to give small gifts when doing business in Russia. Gifts can symbolize the status of your company and the importance of the business you’re about to close, preferably items with local characteristics, or items that display your company’s logo. Also the value of the gift should be commensurate with the rank of the Russian businessman with whom it is being exchanged. Gift giving Business cards Business cards and all documents must be printed in Russian and English. Your business card should be in English on one side and Russian on the other. Try to stand your ground and put any advanced degrees you have on your business card, as these will make a big impression. Meeting Culture Arrange business meetings in advance. It is recommended that meetings with government officials be scheduled at least six weeks in advance. Confirmation of the meeting a few days before the date of the meeting is necessary. Be sure to be on time, but don’t be surprised by the long wait. In the meetings, it is important to talk to your Russian business partners as equals. Since Russians are usually very status conscious, it is recommended that you match the Russian team in terms of numbers and level. This sense of status also makes procedural details such as seating arrangements and speaking order quite important. Business negotiation Expect negotiations to proceed slowly. Negotiations in Russia tend to be slow and therefore patience with the Russians is important in a negotiation. As the Russian proverb says, don’t be “eager to answer” but “eager to listen”. Be calm and patient at all times. Never let your Russian business partners know that you have a deadline, as they may toy with the idea that you won’t get the best deal. Canceling important meetings is common and often used as a negotiation strategy. Walking out of a meeting is also common, so just sit and wait. Russians respect age, rank and position. The most senior person reaches decisions. Russian executives prefer to meet with people of similar rank and position. Russians will not compromise because it is considered a sign of weakness. They will be waiting for you to make the appropriate concessions. Working relationships Russians are transactional and do not need to establish long-standing personal relationships before they do business with people. However, it is still a good idea to develop a network of people who you know and trust. Close ties, based on trust and honesty, can sometimes be the only impetus for progress when negotiations are stalled. Relationship building usually takes time because Russians want to believe you are real and understand your personal goals and ambitions, not your personal objectives. Business entertaining (especially drinking) is a quick and effective way to build relationships. Business entertaining is an important part of workplace culture, especially drinking and toasting. Pitfall 2 Shake hands by a doorway The Russians believe it is unlucky to shake hands across the door and that an argument may occur. Instead, you should wait until the other person comes out of the room, or more commonly, wait until you enter the room before shaking hands with them. You shouldn’t put your hand in the door. You should wait until you are fully in the room before shaking his hand. Pitfall 3 Sit at the corner of the table in a meeting room. In a conference room, everyone is sitting at a table. When a seat isn’t enough, some may grab a chair from another table and sit directly in the corner. What happens in such a situation in Russia? People will give you a very strange look and they will tell you that you have not been married for seven years. It’s an interesting idea or superstition in Russia. Part 4 Career Skills Writing a letter of recommendation Opening Dear Sir / Madam, To whom it may concern, Overview I am delighted to be called upon as a reference for … … has asked me to write a letter of recommendation to accompany his / her application for … . I am very pleased to do so. I am happy to write this letter of recommendation for … . In this letter I would like to express my respect and appreciation for this bright young person, who made outstanding contributions to the work of my group. Writing a letter of recommendation The personal story part I have known … since … , when he / she enrolled in my class / began to work at … . I was … boss / supervisor / colleague / teacher from … to … . His / her greatest talent is / lies in … . His / her extraordinary ability to … was invaluable. The closing part You can contact me by letter / email if you enquire any further information. I will be pleased to answer any additional questions you may have. If you need more information or specif ic examples, please do not hesitate to contact me at … , or by email at … . Lavf58.29.100 $$Unit 3 Malaysia Lead-in 01 Overview 02 Business Knowledge 03 Career Skills 04 目录 Part 1 Lead-in Brief Introduction Important knot in the sea route of Silk Road Explore and promote the Belt and Road initiative with China Advantages: multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-civilization background Cultural melting pot Word tips Borneo 婆罗洲（加里曼丹岛的旧称） culinary a. 烹饪的 mundane a. 世俗的；平凡的 mist-shrouded a. 薄雾笼罩的 trekking trail 徒步路径 kayak vi. 划独木舟 Questions 1 What is Malaysia rich in? 2 Why did the speaker say that “Malaysia is truly a racial melting pot”? 3 What is another aspect of Malaysia’s diversity? 4 What does the speaker mean by saying “In Malaysia the past and the future sit side by side”? 1 .What is Malaysia rich in? Diversities. 2. Why did the speaker say that “Malaysia is truly a racial melting pot”? Because Malay, Indian, Chinese and smaller ethnic groups live together in respectful harmony. 3.What is another aspect of the country’s diversity? Malaysia is also a country of geographical diversity. 4. What does the speaker mean by saying “In Malaysia the past and the future sit side by side.”? Because you may find modern architectures rise above historic districts in Malaysia. Part 2 Overview Country profile Official name - Malaysia Official language - Malay Currency - Ringgit（MYR 林吉特） Capital city - Kuala Lumpur Country profile Since becoming an independent country in 1957, Malaysia has successfully diversified its economy from one that was initially agricultural and commodity-based, to one that now plays host to robust manufacturing and services sectors, which have propelled the country forward to become a leading exporter of electrical appliances, electronic parts and components. Key cultural concepts Indirectness Concept of Face Concept of budi Indirectness high-context culture communicate in a more implicit and indirect way Pay close attention to other subtle forms of communication such as voice tone, body language, eye contact and facial expressions Avoid being too direct and straightforward, especially when you are trying to build a successful business relationship. Concept of face Losing control of one’s emotions in public or giving a direct negative response to your Malaysian business partners may cause you to lose face. By complimenting your Malaysian business partners, showing them respect or doing something to increase their self-esteem, you give them face. Concept of budi Budi is a traditional Malay concept. The attitude has influenced the broader Malaysian social culture and is reflected in the behaviour of people from most backgrounds. In keeping with budi, one should be gracious, polite, good-natured and calm. Concept of budi Budi is a traditional Malay concept. The attitude has influenced the broader Malaysian social culture and is reflected in the behaviour of people from most backgrounds. In keeping with budi, one should be gracious, polite, good-natured and calm. Part 3 Business Knowledge Business etiquette Greetings Punctuality Languages Gift-giving Dress code Religious protocol Greetings Standard greeting for the first time: a firm handshake, a nod or a bow Greet the elders first to show respect Address partners according to proper titles Punctuality The attitude to punctuality varies among different ethnic groups. Indian-Malaysians are more lenient on time. It’s better to be on time. Languages Malaysian government officials: Malay Malaysian companies: English in general Gift-giving Small gifts are acceptable after initial meetings. Take the gift with both hands and open it after the meeting Return a gift in equal value Dress code Formal attire: a suit and tie for men and a conservative suit or skirt and blouse for women Avoid wearing yellow – the exclusive color for royalty in Malaysia Religious protocol Giving or receiving things with two hands or the right hand only Avoid touching or passing objects over the top of someone’s head Do not point fingers in Malaysian Business practices Meetings Business cards Business negotiations Working relationships Meetings Malaysians prefer to meet face to face Meetings should not be scheduled during prayer time on Friday Business cards Accepting and presenting cards with both hands Read the information on the card after receiving it Don’t carry the business card in your back pocket Business negotiations Business negotiations tend to be long and start off with small talk Making decisions after a detailed analysis and consultation Don’t pressure your business partners during negotiations It’s rude to reject the offer immediately Pay attention to hesitant hints Working relationships Mutual respect Initial meetings help to develop working relationships Pitfall 1 Feel offended when being asked personal questions. Do not be surprised by the personal questions. It is an acceptable initial way to talk. Pitfall 2 Start your business with a Malaysian company without an introduction letter. An introduction letter from a bank or an acquaintance Prefer cooperating with people they know well Part 4 Career Skills Writing a business appointment letter Detailed information of the meeting: It’s important to mention the specific date for the appointment. You also need to give the exact time and place for the meeting. Purpose of the meeting: You need to include the purpose of the meeting and why you want to meet with each other. The reader should have a specific reason to find. Contact information: You should also include your contact information. Readers can use these contacts to ask for further information or clear up doubts if they have any. You can provide your name, address, phone number and email address. Writing a business appointment letter I am writing this letter to request a meeting with you regarding … during a conference call on … I am writing to you regarding the business meeting that your company has requested to be held in … We have agreed to meet on … (date) at … (time) in … (place) I have enclosed here all the important documents related to our meeting. I have also attached a schedule of topics to be discussed in the agenda of the meeting. Please confirm the appointment on or before … for the scheduled meeting. Writing a business appointment letter If you have any questions about our appointment or the attached documents,please call me at … If you have any questions, you can contact our agency between … and … at … , or if necessary, you can contact us by email. I look forward to receiving your reply. Look forward to hearing from you. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further information. Lavf58.29.100 $$