"Asia literacy" impacts business bottom-line

“Asia literacy” impacts business bottom-line

Asialink Leadership Program 2005

October 12, 2004
Australian business leaders cannot afford to be culturally illiterate when it comes to Asia, according to the Melbourne University-based Asialink Centre.

“With China driving the region’s economic growth, the stakes are high for many corporations,” Chairman, Mr Carrillo Gantner, said today in opening nominations for the Asialink Leadership Program. “While many transactions might be conducted in English, a knowledge of the cultures is essential for the best outcomes.

“In any negotiation, there are unspoken signals and nuances that can derail the process.”

Mr Gantner said the rich cultural mosaic of Asia could sometimes confuse and mislead Australians. An increasing number of businesses are seeking a deeper understanding of the region as its importance to Australian industry continues to grow.

Asialink’s Leadership Program, designed to increase knowledge of Asia and deepen cross-cultural understanding, will run throughout 2005. Successful applicants will have displayed leadership potential in their businesses or communities and will have a demonstrated commitment to improving Australia Asia relations.

Leadership Program Information sessions:

Melbourne
Venue: Conference Room, Level 14, PricewaterhouseCoopers, 333 Collins Street
Date: Monday October 18; Time: 6.30pm - 8.00pm

Sydney
Venue: Sydney Room, Level 10, PricewaterhouseCoopers, 201 Sussex Street
Date: Thursday October 21; Time: 6.30pm - 8.00pm

Asialink, The University of Melbourne

"Asia literacy" impacts business bottom-line