Expansion Proposal
What mode of entry is being used?
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
What should you do if you're going to be late for a meeting?
Give a quick notice if the delay is unavoidable
What types of gifts are suitable in Croatia for business partners?
High-quality items like wines, chocolates, or handcrafted souvenirs that reflect local culture.
What type of suits do men typically wear in professional settings in Croatia?
Dark suits with ties.
How should humor be used in conversations with Croatians?
Dry or sarcastic humor should be used cautiously until you know the audience well.
What is the main focus of GE's expansion in Croatia?
Improving Croatia's railroad infrastructure.
Why is being on time important in Croatia?
It is highly valued since being late is seen as disrespectful.
Why should gifts in Croatia be thoughtful but not extravagant?
Because overly lavish gifts may be interpreted as inappropriate.
How do Croatian women typically dress in professional settings?
Tailored business suits or elegant dresses.
What non-verbal cues are important for building bonds in Croatia?
Maintaining eye contact and an open posture.
Why is enhancing Croatia's railroad infrastructure important?
It fills an infrastructure gap and supports the country's transport improvement.
How do meetings typically begin?
they begin with small talk, then warm up and get direct and straight to the point.
What is usual to bring when attending a business partner’s home in Croatia?
Bringing flowers or a bottle of wine is acceptable.
Why is attention to detail in grooming and accessories important in Croatia?
It is seen as a reflection of professionalism and respect for others.
How can raised voices or overly animated gestures be interpreted in Croatia?
They can be misinterpreted as aggression.
What strategic advantage does Croatia's geographical position provide for GE?
It enhances the potential for Croatia to become a key hub in Southeast Europe for logistics and transportation.
What topics are commonly discussed during the small talk at the beginning of business meetings?
General topics like the weather, local events, or personal interests are usually discussed.
How does gift giving in the USA differ from Croatia in a business context?
Gift giving is less common due to policies and legal concerns in the US. When gifts are given, they tend to be modest and practical (EX merchandise).
How do Croatians view bright or overly casual clothing in formal business contexts?
Generally avoided.
How do Americans' straightforward and direct conversation styles sometimes appear to Croatians?
They can sometimes appear blunt.
How will GE's investment in Croatian infrastructure potentially impact the country's economy?
contribute to economic growth and strengthen Croatia's position in global logistics.
What is the polite way to set up and confirm appointments in Croatia?
Set appointments in advance and confirm them closer to the date is considered polite.
What does the Croatian preference for cultural and personalized gifts reflect compared to the American view on gift giving?
The Croatian preference reflects an emphasis on relationship building, while Americans may see gift giving as less essential in business.
How does the adherence to dress codes in Croatia compare to the USA?
maintain a stricter adherence to formal dress codes, reflecting a traditional view of business etiquette compared to the more flexible standards in the USA.
Why is being mindful of tone and body language crucial in bridging conversational differences between Croatians and Americans?
might interpret excessive enthusiasm as insincere, and Americans may come across as blunt, so understanding these nuances helps in effective communication.