"Assume that you're going to the capital city of another country on
business two months from now. (You pick the country.) What key features
of business etiquette might you consider? Why?"
Well, I have been to two foreign capitals in my life (three if you count the Isle of Mann), London and Taipei. Both have significantly different cultures from the US.
If I were to go to Taipei for business, I would have to do a lot more research so that I do not commit a faux pas. I would have to learn such things as the proper greeting and how to bow properly. But at the same time, you need to be careful not to overdo their traditions so that you don't seem like this is a novelty and you are belittling their culture. There is a fine balance of being respectful and absconding their culture.
The English are closer to the States in business but they certainly have their own business etiquette. However, misunderstandings are easier to handle because of the cultural similarities. It is easier to see the discomfort in a situation when the cultures and language are similar.
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