Don't be a stupid American!

Often, we Americans feel there are two ways to do things: our way and
the wrong way. Do us all a favor and show your ability to accept the
fact that there are other places in the world, and they just may have
something to contribute.

Sounds a bit harsh, I know. But after living in Europe the past
several years, I may have earned the right to say just that. Please
bear in mind that I'm not saying that Americans are stupid at all.
It's simply worth keeping in mind that when doing business in Europe,
or even just with Europeans, or with any non-Americans for that
matter, it might help to be just a bit more sensitive to a few things
before starting.

Let me give you an example. Do you remember growing up and going to
school? There was always one kid who had the nice clothes, got good
grades, was liked by all the teachers, was really good in all of the
sports he or she participated in, yadda yadda. It seems that no matter
what that kid did or said it kind of upset you, or it got under your
skin a bit. Am I right or am I right? Sure, looking back your view of
that person may seem unfair, but at the time it seemed to be justified.

Well, allow me to let you in on a well-kept secret. Many Europeans see
the US in the same light. There's a "We generally respect you, but get
over it," attitude that many Europeans have towards the US.

The US towers over Europe in several areas. Here are just a few examples:
# of countries: Europe has 25; USA has 1
Population: Europe has 457 million citizens; USA has 297 million
Total Area: Europe is 3,976,372 km; USA is 9,631,923 km
GDP per Capita: Europe is $ 26,900; USA is $ 40,100
Industrial Production Growth Rate: Europe at 2.4%; USA at 4.4%
Annual Patents; Europe issues 62,000; USA issues 107,000
2004 Olympic Games (highest place): Germany 5th; USA 1st
Sole Remaining Superpower? Europe = no; USA = yes

Now, after a brief look those numbers, you can easily see why others
countries regard the US with an "enough already!" attitude.

I witnessed a personal example of this a couple of years back before
watching a tape of the 2002-2003 Fiesta Bowl game with another
American, an Australian, and a friend from Britain. Prior to engaging
in the time-tested male bonding ritual of sitting in front of a
television yelling "Get him! Get him!" we were carrying on the type of
conversation guys engage in before game time.

Obviously, sports talk was one of the subjects de jour. A comment was
made about the apparent increasing strength of the American soccer
team. My British friend stood up, and with a sound of helplessness in
his voice, simply said "You guys (Americans) dominate EVERTHING ELSE
IN THE WORLD. Can't you PLEEEEEASE just leave us football!? (i.e.
soccer)" Point made. (I'm sure there were a few expletives thrown in
for good measure, but that's beside the point.)

America is a huge country. Maybe that's why so few Americans have a
really global mindset. As a result, we tend to see everything we do
through "America goggles." While there is certainly nothing at all
wrong with being aware of your roots, it bears noting that the
internationals you will be working with probably have a view of their
own. And guess what: it's not an American view. And guess what else:
there's nothing wrong with that.

If I had a nickel for every time I have seen a fellow American notice
some European cultural difference and react with "That's so weird!" I
would never have to work another day in my life. Remember - different
doesn't mean wrong; it simply means different.

Please don't get me wrong. I'm probably the most red, white and blue
person you'll find in Europe. And that is exactly why I feel compelled
to take this stance. Do your country proud when dealing in an
international environment. And if you have the good fortune to deal in
an international setting, keep the following in mind:
1.) As in everything else, you will get one opportunity to make a
first impression: Don't foul it up.
2.) They really don't care "how you do it in America."
3.) Proud yet dignified beats rude and obnoxious hands-down, any day
of the week.
4.) While you are thinking about their excessive holiday time, they
are pondering the chronic obesity in your country, so don't even go there.
5.) Act smart because you do smart things, not because of where you
come from.

Working in an international setting is a great opportunity for you,
your company and your country. By using just a bit of sensitivity and
restraint, you can make all three look good.

Contributed by J. Brad Moss

James Shellaberger
http://www.nichemoneymachine.com
http://www.topglobalrecipes.com