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 Kuwaiti culture

• The Bedouin heritage.
• One of the largest oil producers in the Persian Gulf
• A region of great geopolitical interest.
• The challenge of economic diversification

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

• A Muslim culture characterised by its openness to the rest of the world
• The importance of tribal origins
• The family unit as the bedrock of identity. 
• A duty to provide hospitality 
• Going beyond the stereotypes. Women: between tradition and modernity
• A rigid hierarchy: respect for age and status
• Flexibility where time is concerned. 
• The importance attached to appearances

4. The kuwaiti corporate world

• The influence of religion on business and the pace of work
• A virtually 100% state-controlled economy
• A horizontal hierarchy subject to the authority of a leader
• Professional relationships

Module 2 : Succeeding in work with the Kuwaitis

1. Effective communication with the Kuwaitis

• Building personal relationships
• The importance of verbal communication.  A culture making extensive use of gestures.
• Respect and courtesy: the right attitude
• Arabic for day-to-day life and English for business

2. Adapting your working methods

• Establishing your authority: posture and bearing
• The concentration of decision-making powers
• Building and maintaining trust and confidence: responsiveness and a willingness to listen 
• Anticipating possible obstacles
• Pitfalls to be avoided

3. Successful meetings and negotiations with the Kuwaitis

• The art of negotiation
• Identifying decision-makers, giving and keeping your word, providing ample documentation
• Taking care when drafting contracts
• Successful follow-up
• Organising the post-negotiation phase

4. Final handy tips

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