Module 1 : Understanding cultural differences

1. Intercultural awareness : the key to success in international business

• Taking stock of one's own cultural baggage
• The basics of effective intercultural management
• Identifying and going beyond cultural stereotypes

2. Key aspects of Gabonese culture

• An equatorial country of sub-Saharan Africa
• A young, large, multiethnic population
• The impact of French colonisation
• The challenges posed by independence and democracy
• Oil: a precious windfall which has attracted numerous other countries
• The economic ambitions of a tightly run state

3. The impact of values and behaviour patterns on professional dealings and relationships

• A male-dominated society
• The family: the cornerstone of Gabonese society
• The presence of religion in a secular environment
• A relative vision of time
• The importance of appearances
• Hierarchy and social classes
• The group and the community takes precedence over the individual
• Pride in one’s identity and sense of honour
• Reserve and self-control

4. The Gabonese corporate world

• A respect for hierarchy and authority
• The collective aspects of productivity
• Personal commitment and a fear of failure
• The influence of politics on the country’s economic and business life

Module 2 : Succeeding in work with the Gabonese

1. Effective communication with the Gabonese

• A direct communication style
• Deciphering unspoken messages
• The importance of mediators and networking
• The French language and local dialects

2. Adapting your working methods

• Say what you mean and do what you say
• Supervising staff and giving praise where praise is due
• Encouraging feedback
• Dealing with sensitive and touchy people
• Pitfalls to be avoided

3. Successful meetings and negotiations with the Gabonese

• Giving relationships that personal touch: humility and subtlety
• Patience, perseverance and coherence
• Self expression: frankness and honesty
• Written contracts, their interpretation and implications
• Organizing the post-negotiation phase

4. Final handy tips

• Caution, patience and humility
• Protocol and etiquette
• Social standards, gifts, business cards, dress code
• Sensitive subjects: politics, history, religion
• Humour: a double-edged sword