英语听力精选进阶版 6014

China is the biggest market in the world, and many countries such as Germany, the USA, the UK and Russia do a lot of business there. Let’s have a look at some important tips to help you be successful with these nationalities.

Firstly, you must be punctual with Germans. Even 5 minutes late makes a bad impression. Being punctual is also very important in the USA. In the UK, it’s important to be punctual for business meetings, but nobody expects you to be on time for a social event. Half past seven really means quarter to eight, or even eight o’clock! With Russians, always be on time, but don’t be surprised if your Russian contact is very late! It is not unusual for them to be one or even two hours late!

In all four countries, it is best to dress formally and use dark colours. In Russia, designer clothes are very common. Don’t be surprised if you go to an office in the UK on a Friday and find everyone wearing jeans. Many companies have ‘dress down Friday’, when people wear casual 1 clothes.

In Germany, first names are only used with family members and close friends, so be prepared to use titles and last names. In the USA you will usually be invited to use first names almost immediately. The British are quite informal and using first names in business is more and more common, especially among younger people. In Russia, however, nobody uses first names, so use titles and last names.

In conversation, the British and the Americans value humour, and both like to talk about sport. The weather is also a good topic of conversation with the British, but avoid talking about politics. In Russia, say positive things about their country, but avoid making complaints. The Germans, however, prefer to get straight down to business!

Finally, when doing business in all countries make sure you have a lot of business cards. Remember that in Germany, once a deal has been agreed, you can’t change it! In the USA, money is more important than relationships, whereas 2 in Russia it’s important to get to know your contact well. Finally, don’t be surprised if a British meeting seems like chaos 3, with everybody participating and giving opinions!

So, use these tips, and you will be on your way to a successful international business career!

GLOSSARY 词汇表

market 市场

punctual 准时的

contact 联系；联系人

designer clothes 名牌服装

titles 职称；官衔

humour 幽默

complaints 抱怨

business cards 商（业）务名片

chaos 混乱

tips 技巧

makes a bad impression 留下不佳印象

formally  正式的

casual 休闲的

informal 随便的；非正式的

avoid 回避

get straight down to business 开门见山谈生意

deal 合同

career 事业