International Business and Culture from Coursera

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Syllabus

Managing Culture

National cultures have a profound influence on the conduct of international business. The first lesson defines what we mean by “culture,” and then explore several of the many determinants of a national culture, such as language, communication styles, religion, social stratification patterns, and religion many determinants of culture. In the second lesson, we introduce six widely used dimensions of national culture, which are power distance, individualism, competitiveness, uncertainty avoidance, time orientation, and indulgence. Understanding these dimensions provides powerful insight into national cultures for international managers.

Managing Human Resources

In this module we discuss the important topics of international organizational strategy and international human resource management (IHRM). Organizations are, of course, humans working together – individually, in teams, and in large organizations – toward common goals and objectives. Coordinating these efforts domestically is hard, but is even more so when working across borders, cultures, economic domains, and legal systems. In this module we will attempt to sort out some of important ways to manage the international aspects of this human complexity.

Global Marketing

This module addresses the important topic of international marketing. We will see how standard marketing models such as the 3Cs, 4Ps, and segmentation are used in international settings, and how they help to define target markets, national marketing mix strategies, promotion strategies, branding strategies, and strategic international marketing strategies. Businesses cannot survive without customers, so understanding how international marketing differs from domestic marketing is paramount for successful international business management!

B2B Marketing

In this module we tackle the very important topic of international B2B marketing. Business-to-business (B2B) marketing addresses businesses selling to other businesses, rather than businesses selling directly to consumers (B2C). We argue that most cross-border trade is B2B and not B2C, so the study of B2B marketing is relevant for a most businesses engaged in international trade. We first define B2B commerce and demonstrate its inherent complexities. We next present the SAVE model of B2B marketing, which is a substitute for common B2C models. We conclude with an examination of factors important for successful international B2B marketing efforts.

Managing Cultures: HRM and Marketing

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Know what's good

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, and possible dealbreakers

Develops an understanding of how cultures influence human resource management and marketing strategies across borders

Provides a comprehensive overview of managing human resources in international businesses, addressing diverse employee populations

Taught by instructors with expertise in business and management, providing real-world insights

Covers contemporary marketing strategies for businesses operating in global markets

Examines the complexities of international business-to-business marketing

Reviews summary

Well-received course on international business

Learners say this International Business and Culture course is engaging and teaches about different aspects of international business. Many find the videos, explanations, and readings to be helpful and easy to understand. Overall, learners seem to think this is a helpful course with a lot to offer.

Learners gain knowledge and skills that are applicable to their business endeavors.

"Could be better with more information and statistics"

"Learned about different aspects of International Business Culture..Surely increased Knowledge "

"This course are very helpful for every one and gain a some knowledge , communication skills ,cultural activities behavior like etc."

Learners appreciate that the course material is easy to follow.

"thanks a lot for sharing the concept in detail.the way of explanation is outstanding"

"it wasn't perfect, but it was very informative and simple. it was easy to understand."

"Exceptional course. In depth and easy to understand. "

Learners enjoy the videos, explanations, and readings.

"thanks a lot for sharing the concept in detail.the way of explanation is outstanding"

"it wasn't perfect, but it was very informative and simple. it was easy to understand."

"Excellent content, all explanations and videos."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in International Business and Culture with these activities:

International business concepts

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Review foundational concepts of international business to strengthen your understanding of the course materials.

Browse courses on International Business

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Review your notes or textbooks from previous courses on international business.
Read articles or watch videos on current trends and issues in international business.

Read 'International Business: Strategies, Management, and Operations' by Daniels, Radebaugh, and Sullivan

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Gain a comprehensive overview of international business concepts and strategies through this recommended textbook.

View International Business, Global Edition on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow a copy of the book.
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting important sections.

Form a study group

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Collaborate with peers to discuss course concepts, share insights, and reinforce your understanding.

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Identify a group of classmates with shared interests.
Set regular meeting times and a study schedule.
Meet regularly to discuss course materials, work on assignments, and prepare for exams.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Attend a workshop on global marketing

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Gain practical insights and network with professionals in the field of international marketing.

Browse courses on International Marketing

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Research upcoming workshops on global marketing.
Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions.

Practice case studies on international HRM

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Apply your knowledge of international HRM concepts by working through real-world case studies.

Browse courses on Human Resource Management

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Find case studies on international HRM.
Read the case studies and analyze the challenges and solutions presented.
Discuss your findings with classmates or a mentor.

Develop a marketing plan for an international product launch

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Create a comprehensive marketing plan that demonstrates your understanding of international marketing.

Browse courses on Marketing Plan

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Choose a product or service to launch internationally.
Research the target market and develop a marketing strategy.
Create a marketing budget and timeline.
Monitor and evaluate the results of your marketing plan.

Mentor a student in an international business program

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Share your knowledge and experience with a student who is new to the field of international business.

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Reach out to your university or local business organizations to find mentoring opportunities.
Meet with your mentee regularly to provide guidance and support.
Share your experiences and insights on international business.

Write a blog post on a current topic in international business

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Stay up-to-date on industry trends and share your insights by writing a blog post.

Browse courses on International Business

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Choose a current topic in international business.
Research the topic and gather information.
Write a well-written and informative blog post.
Publish your blog post and promote it on social media.

Career center

Learners who complete International Business and Culture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

International Business Consultant

As an International Business Consultant, your responsibilities include advising and working with businesses as they engage with other markets and countries. Having a firm understanding of international business and culture is vital to your success in this consulting role. This course's coverage of the impact national and international culture has on business is directly applicable to your work, and will help you to better understand international workforce and consumer behaviors.

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International Marketing Manager

As an International Marketing Manager, your goal is to develop and implement marketing campaigns that fit specific international markets. You will have a deep understanding of international business and cross-cultural behavior, which this course will enhance. The exploration of cross-cultural marketing strategies is a direct benefit to your work in this role.

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Cross-Cultural Trainer

As a Cross-Cultural Trainer, you help equip individuals as they go into new cultural environments. You help create training programs to help people live and work in international markets, with respect to local culture. This course is a great foundation for your work, as it will enhance your expertise in cultural differences and dimensions, along with the challenges inherent in operating across borders.

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Global Human Resources Manager

As a Global Human Resources Manager, you will implement and maintain human resource policies and procedures across international borders. This course will help you to better understand the challenges that international managers face. You will also learn strategies for navigating the complexities of working with a diverse workforce across cultural lines.

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International M&A Specialist

An International M&A Specialist helps international companies to merge with one another. This course may help you prepare for this work, as it covers concepts in international business, human resource management, and marketing, all of which are vital to your success in this career. The coverage of dimensions of culture will also help you with the negotiations involved with such work.

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International Recruiter

As an International Recruiter, your job is to source and recruit professionals for roles that are based in international offices. This course will help you to better understand the global workforce. It will also help you to better market your recruiting efforts across cultures, which will increase the number of qualified candidates in your pool.

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Localization Specialist

As a Localization Specialist, you will modify products and services to conform to the needs of particular international locales. This course will help you to understand the cultural context of your work. It will also help you to develop culturally competent communication strategies that will strengthen your work.

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Expatriate Manager

As an Expatriate Manager, you oversee international offices and are responsible for the success of the company abroad. An understanding of national cultures is paramount to your success in this role, and this course will help you to better lead your team.

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Intercultural Communication Specialist

As an Intercultural Communication Specialist, you will help organizations develop global marketing and communications strategies that resonate with people from different cultures. This course may help you to excel in this work. It will help you to develop a strong foundation in international business and culture.

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International Relations Manager

As an International Relations Manager, you will build and maintain relationships with other countries and work to promote your nation's interests abroad. This course will help you to develop the cultural knowledge and expertise that will lead to your success in this diplomatic role.

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International Trade Specialist

As an International Trade Specialist, you will assist your country in its trade relations with other nations. This course may be helpful to your work, as it will offer you a broad overview of international business and culture. It will also help you to develop important cross-cultural communication skills.

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Market Research Analyst

A Market Research Analyst gathers and analyzes data about consumer needs. This information is then used by businesses to develop new products and services. This course may be helpful to your work. It will provide you with a foundational understanding of the forces that shape national and international culture, which will help you to better understand consumer behavior.

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Multicultural Marketing Manager

As a Multicultural Marketing Manager, your focus will be on developing strategies to reach audiences from multiple cultural backgrounds. This course will provide you with the essential background you need for success in this role, through its focus on the impact of national cultures on marketing and communications.

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Public Relations Specialist

In your work as a Public Relations Specialist, you will enhance the image of a particular person, product, or organization. This course may be useful in this work, as it will help you to better understand international business culture. It will also help you to be more successful with intercultural communication with your audiences.

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Writer and/or Journalist

As a Writer or Journalist, you may cover topics such as international business and culture for a variety of publications. This course will provide you with context for your writing, and will help you to better engage your audience. It will also help you develop strong cross-cultural communication skills that will benefit you in your journalism career.

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