How to help your country while traveling for your company

Abstract

Purpose

To remind readers of the decline in America's reputation and the importance of “citizen diplomacy” in addressing the problem.

Design/methodology/approach

Business for Diplomatic Action (BDA) asked people in more than 100 countries to give advice for Americans who travel outside the US. Their responses formed the foundation for a World Citizens Guide produced and distributed by BDA to US youth who travel and study abroad. Based on the success of this students' guide, a business travelers' guide will be released in the first quarter of 2006.

Findings

Research confirms that Americans are broadly seen as arrogant, self‐absorbed, ignorant of other cultures and insensitive. These perceptions are at least partially formed by interaction with the Americans who make 60 million trips abroad every year. By following the advice of people in host countries, US citizens who travel can begin to improve America's reputation.

Practical implications

The article includes 16 specific suggestions that, followed, will make American business travelers better ambassadors for their country.

Originality/value

Understanding how Americans are perceived is the first step toward modifying arrogant and insensitive behavior. American business travelers who learn to be more sensitive to the foreign cultures they encounter will not only enhance their chances for business success but will improve the perception of their country at the same time.

Citation

Reinhard, K. (2006), "How to help your country while traveling for your company", Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 38-40. https://doi.org/10.1108/02756660610663817