Negotiating In Morocco

Negotiating in Morocco

MANDATORY WORK OVERVIEW

1. Introduction 2. Basic values of Arab culture 3. Basic religious attitudes 4. Self-perception 5. Other cultural and characteristic elements 5.1. Division of the world into friends and strangers 5.2. Perception of the environment, style of reasoning and persuasion 5.3. Timing 5.4. Formalities and etiquette 5.5. Style communicational 6.Bibliography

1. Introduction Morocco is considered an Arabian country. This country has been experiencing a gradual and increasing Westernization process that has led to significant social changes, among which may be mentioned the following: - More information of the population through the media (TV, radio, internet, etc.). - Increasing the number of young people formed wholly or partly in the West.- Increasing human resources that working in/with Western companies and organizations. - Growth in the volume and quality of international trade relations. These and other factors are, first, the western appearance of many Arabs can become a 'trap' for the unprepared Western. They remain culturally Arabs, with all that that means that we will see below. And, second, Westernization has caused muchdebate in the Arab people: can they modernize without losing their traditional values and customs? We have to take into account all of the above in the business negotiation with Morocco. The Egyptian Dr. Elashmawi, intercultural relations expert consultant, says that the intercultural competence is the most important skill when it comes to work and do business with organizations in Morocco. Inthe case of Spain, this country has a small advantage over the rest of the West at the time of relating to Morocco. This is due, among other reasons, to eight centuries of Arab presence in their culture have left deep sediment in our idiosyncrasies and customs. 2. Basic values of Arab culture The dignity, honor and reputation are very important. Appearances are crucial. Always one has to behave soas to give a good impression to others. The hospitality and courtesy play a decisive role. Loyalty to one's family always has precedence over personal needs. Primacy of age and experience. Social class and family background are key factors in determining the status. Then are placed on personal and individual achievement.

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3. Basic religious attitudes In dealing with Muslims we must to havethe religion always present. They pray five times a day for half an hour, at this time everything is paralyzed, offices and shops. The prayers schedules vary, so it is advisable that we're informed for not interrupt or to be at a bad time. A holiday that we must to know is: Ramadan, which is not eat, drink, or smoke from dawn until sunset. This takes place during the ninth Muslim month. For them,Friday is the holy day and therefore these day there are not negotiations.

The Quran states the type of foods they can and can not eat. They are not allowed to eat meat from animals that have died naturally, without being slaughtered to provide food. Also they can not drink alcohol or fermented liquors, no blood, no pork or any food derived of them. It is therefore advisable not to try any ofthe forbidden food for them, including alcohol, in their presence because it is considered disrespectful. 4. Self-perception Perceive themselves as generous, caring, loyal and courteous. They are fully aware and are proud of their rich culture and collective history, however, believe unknown and/or despised by the West. Despite national differences, are considered members of the Arab Nation (alummaal-'Arabiyya). They believe that the Arab peoples have been exploited by the West. Often feel misunderstood by Westerners. Many assume that imitation and indiscriminate adoption of Western culture is detrimental to Arab society.

5. Other cultural and characteristic elements 5.1 Division of the world into friends and strangers In the Arab mind the world is divided into friends and strangers:...