Cross- cultural Communication This page intentionally left blank

Profile of the effective aid adviser
The following skills listed in Figure 13.1 are required in addition to being 
professionally qualified with the appropriate education, training and 
experience.

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Transfer of Skills, Technology and Knowledge 245
Analysis of risks
The transfer of technology to overseas companies or governments, whether 
as part of international aid, FDI or setting up IJVs, always carries certain 
risks. These can be minimized by preparatory risk analysis involving 
detailed market research, evaluating the existing competition in the chosen 
market and an assessment of the political and economic stability of the 
country in which such investment is considered. The analysis would also 
include an assessment of the projected spending power of the population, 
the stability of its currency, existing business and labour regulations, the 
bureaucratic pressure of government agencies and the general security of 
the area. Although this chapter is more concerned with the cultural aspects 
that are part of the overall risk analysis, in order to be successful, the fol-
lowing factors should be reviewed when drawing up a technology transfer 
programme:
the availability of an educated and trained local labour force;
the cultural appropriateness of the technology for the intended 
recipients;
local government policies on licensing restrictions, equity ownership and 
local asset ownership by foreigners;
local taxation laws and restrictions on the repatriation of payments back 
to the supplier country;
the effectiveness of legal protection in the local market;
the risk of national expropriation if there is a change of government.
One of the most important areas where there can be cultural dissonance is 
in relation to corporate culture, particularly if one culture is very dominant 
and wishes to exercise overall control over the venture. In the case of certain 
IJVs, the local government may insist on a partnership with the provider but 
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Realistic pre- departure expectations: aware of the constraints and barriers to 
effective performance, but confident as a result of good pre- departure briefing that 
these can be overcome
Flexible approach to ideas and points of view; adopting a non- judgmental perspective
Acknowledging and respecting input from representatives of the receiving culture
Good, patient listening skills
The ability to perceive the needs of others
The ability to build relationships and work in a team
Sensitivity to and respect for local social and cultural values
The ability to show initiative and propose solutions to unexpected problems that may
arise
Confidence in his or her professional expertise and ability to inspire others
Figure 13.1 Profile of the effective aid adviser

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246 Cross-Cultural Communication
will retain overall control. In Saudi Arabia, for example, foreign oil companies 
are expected to hire and train Saudi petroleum engineers.