David Smith Was Sent Moscow to Develop a Working Relationship

question 25

Essay

David Smith was sent Moscow to develop a working relationship with a large Russian firm. When he met the company's Russian branch director, he gave his best smile, handshake and friendly joke…only to be met with a dreary and unhappy look." Later, Smith learned that Russian culture fosters smiling in private settings and seriousness in business settings.
1. David Smith was sent Moscow to develop a working relationship with a large Russian firm. When he met the company's Russian branch director, he gave his best smile, handshake and friendly joke…only to be met with a dreary and unhappy look." Later, Smith learned that Russian culture fosters smiling in private settings and seriousness in business settings.
1. What does this example show about doing business in a different culture?
2. What do you advise Mr. Smith to do?

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Definitions:

Waxes and Steroids

Diverse types of lipids, with waxes serving as protective coatings and steroids playing roles in cellular signaling and structure.

Lipids

A broad group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, etc., primarily used for energy storage and in cell membranes.

Hydrophobic

Describes molecules or surfaces that repel water, inhibiting the ability of water to bond or saturate the material or molecule.

Lipids

Broad class of naturally occurring molecules that includes fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins, and others, which are insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.