A useful recommendation in this sense is represented by the contracting of a local law firm to ease the company's penetration into the region and to help us understand and overcome the initial barriers. But aside from understanding and complying with the regulations, it is also essential to understand and comply with the cultural features.
India is one of the oldest and most impressive global cultures. And its culture has also impacted the means in which business is conducted. One specific means is represented by the language barriers which are raised. And not only that the representatives of the two countries would speak different languages, it is highly possible that the representatives of India speak different languages among themselves. This is because the states of India have different official languages, and some states even have more than one official language (Kwintessential).
In terms of actual relationships between the Indians, these are created and maintained with strong emphasis on hierarchy. "Indians are always conscious of social order and their status relative to other people, be they family, friends, or strangers.
All relationships involve hierarchies. In schools, teachers are called gurus and are viewed as the source of all knowledge. The patriarch, usually the father, is considered the leader of the family. The boss is seen as the source of ultimate responsibility in business. Every relationship has a clear- cut hierarchy that must be observed for the social order to be maintained" (Kwintessential).
The family plays a crucial role in the life of the Indians, the individual often being defined in terms of the family to which he belongs. The family members create norms and rules of behavior which have to be obeyed.
At the level of the cultural elements which directly impact the business operations, these refer to the following:
Indians cannot say "no" meaning as such that they will often offer the answer their interlocutor wants to hear. This is not to be perceived as dishonesty, but rather an effort of...
Yet, it is often common for meetings to be cancelled -- even last minute. Partners must as such confirm meetings and remain flexible.
Indians are patient and generally non-confrontational. They will seldom disagree upfront and when the negotiation partners lose their temper, they are perceived as unworthy of trust.
Decisions are made by the top leaders and often implemented without argument. Decision making is nevertheless a slow process and will often be delayed when the government influences the decision.
Indians often expect concessions to be made on the price and terms of a business proposal and it is acceptable for the partner to also expect some concessions in exchange for those made (Kwintessential).
Overall then, India is a highly popular destination for international investors due to the multitude of benefits it offers. Nevertheless, in order for the business endeavors to succeed, it is of the utmost importance for the foreign investor to understand and adapt to the economic, political, business and cultural particularities of the country.
