s why it is critical to understand customs and traditions of other cultures when negotiating. Many things come into play, including where, when and how meetings are conducted. Another aspect that should be taken into account right along side cultural differences, are problems associated with religion. This can come into effect because certain religious have their daily worship at specific times of the day and A manager can not schedule a meeting at this time. Since holidays and religious affairs vary in different religions around the world, there should be attention paid to this matter. One industry where religious differences become an issue is in the restaurant business. In India cows are considered sacred so therefore they do not eat any beef. A McDonald’s restaurant in India probably would not be so successful. Another issue similar to this was when McDonald’s opened up in Israel. Orthodox Jews are not allowed to mix milk products with meat products. This was a problem in Israel, for instance, when a cheeseburger was served in McDonald’s. There was a petition signed by many Israeli citizens, but the company did not change its practice to suit them. McDonald’s International Chief Executive Officer, James R. Cantalupo, said in response to the concern, “At McDonald’s, we strive to be a responsible corporate citizen and a good community neighbor. Whether in the US, Israel or any of the 80 other countries in which we do business, we always try to be sensitive to the cultural and religious heritage of the community.” By not complying with the request, McDonald’s lost a large part of potential business. Going international in any business there is a great risk factor. “When companies choose to grow, they must accept risk along with opportunity.”(1) There are many issues that need to be taken into consideration when taking a business abroad. Lack of familiarity wi...
