Correct Response: C. Initial business interactions are formal and require careful attention to cultural values, beliefs, and perceptions. A cross-cultural study should be conducted prior to meeting with unfamiliar counterparts to learn about cultural courtesies and cues that are expected in formal and respectful interactions. Although aggressive negotiating tactics may be used in some business situations (A), a more respectful strategy should be used for initial meetings. In many cultures, friendly, interpersonal relationships may be perceived as disrespectful; it is best to allow interpersonal relationships to develop naturally (B). Cooperative consensus building is not appropriate during initial contacts with business leaders from other countries as it may be perceived as being disrespectful (D).
