Page 696 - Business Principles and Management

Chapter 25 • Developing an Effective Organization

accompany any business career, international
careers usually offer additional job choices
and the chance to develop new skills, travel,
and interact with a wide variety of people
from different cultures.
The international businessperson should
know something about the culture of the
country in which the business will operate or
to which the company’s products and service
are directed. The economic environment of
countries is another important area of study.
Currently, English is the international language
of business. However, there is no substitute
for understanding the language of the country
in which you will work. People are favorably
impressed when you take the trouble to learn
their language. It is difficult to predict which PHOTO: © GETTY IMAGES/PHOTODISC.
languages will be the most important in your
future. Your commitment to study and learn
a second language will impress employers
as well as your international contacts. You
will also find it easier to learn an additional
language if needed later. Your selection of
international courses in high school and college, travel opportunities, and inter-
actions with people from other countries and cultures are all valuable experiences What are some advantages of
if you would like to work in international business. international business careers?

CHECKPOINT

List the levels of business employment in order of least experience
and education to most.

Preparing for a Business Career

Preparing for a career in business may seem like trying to negotiate a maze.
People who are not familiar with business may have difficulty determining
what preparation they need and how to obtain the job they want. If you talk
to people who have worked in business for many years, you will find that
some did not plan or prepare for the job they currently hold. They often ended
up there after starting in another part of the business or in an entirely different
occupation.
Today, a person is less likely to enter a business career without specific
preparation. In your study of business, you have seen that a business career
requires a great deal of knowledge and skill in a number of areas. People who
understand the requirements and carefully plan to develop the necessary skills
are more likely to succeed in business. In some ways, preparing for a business
career is complicated, but in other ways it is really quite simple. It is often a
matter of matching your personal qualities, education, and experience with a
career path in business.

683