Asked by Allie Luker on Jun 19, 2024
Verified
An American executive goes to Yemen to finalize a business deal. He hands over his documents to his Yemeni host with his left hand, which Muslims in Yemen consider unclean. Moreover, he refuses to accept the dry fruits that he is offered, a behaviour that deeply offends his host. As a result, the American loses the business deal to his Australian counterpart who was better versed in Yemeni ways. The lack of understanding of ___ is most likely to have resulted in the loss of business for the American executive.
A) the business trends in Yemen
B) Yemeni dress code
C) the business laws in Yemen
D) Yemeni culture
E) the banking system in Yemeni
Yemeni Culture
The rich and diverse cultural heritage of Yemen, characterized by traditional music, dance, attire, and social norms deeply rooted in its history and Islamic beliefs.
Left Hand
Often used metaphorically to represent skills or tasks that are less dominant or secondary to one's main abilities.
Dry Fruits
Dehydrated fruits with most of the water content removed through drying methods, resulting in a more concentrated flavor and longer shelf life.
- Comprehend the importance of varying communication styles across different cultures.
Verified Answer
AB
Anthony BogovicJun 23, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
The lack of understanding of Yemeni culture led to the American's loss of business. The left hand is considered unclean in Muslim culture and it is important to use the right hand for handling documents and other objects. Refusing food offered is also considered impolite and offensive in Yemeni culture, which may have led to the host reconsidering the business deal with the American and instead choosing the Australian counterpart who was likely more familiar with such customs.
Learning Objectives
- Comprehend the importance of varying communication styles across different cultures.