Module 1 : Understanding cultural differences

1. Intercultural awareness : the key to success in international business

• Taking stock of one's own cultural baggage
• The basics of effective intercultural management
• Identifying and going beyond cultural stereotypes

2. Key aspects of Djiboutian culture

• The Land of the Brave: a strategic micro-state in the Horn of Africa
• Afars, Somalis, Arabs and Chamites : a multi-ethnic population
• A proud, age-old civilization and heritage
• Colonization, famines and civil war: stability after a turbulent past
• A trade-based economy

3. The impact of values and behaviour patterns on professional dealings and relationships

• An emerging national identity and the persistence of ethnic issues
• A patriarchal social structure based on tribal and rural traditions
• Islamic fervor
• An adaptable approach to time and space
• Pride and a sense of honour
• Respect for age and status: the role played by the ugaz
• Music, dance and qat: festive gatherings

4. The Djiboutian corporate world

• Family-based, state-owned and international businesses: separate organizations, separate realities
• Work and professional status as indicators of social rank
• The role of migrants and the impact of unemployment
• The international military presence: generating jobs and currencies
• The state and the authorities: major employers

Module 2 : Succeeding in work with the Djiboutians

1. Effective communication with the Djiboutians

• Networking and reputation: the emphasis on verbal communication
• The importance of greetings and small-talk
• Deciphering gestures and non-verbal communication
• French, Arabic and local languages

2. Adapting your working methods

• Effective management: leadership, experience and a willingness to listen
• Encouraging cohesion and harmony
• Ironing out and minimizing differences to forge a genuine group spirit
• Proposing, listening, deciding and supervising
• Pitfalls to be avoided

3. Successful meetings and negotiations with the Djiboutians

• Building trust and confidence: adding that personal touch to cement long-term relationships
• Responsiveness, adaptability and availability
• The subtle art of negotiation
• Understanding written contracts, their interpretation and implications
• Organising the post-negotiation phase

4. Final handy tips

• Caution, patience and humility
• Protocol and etiquette
• Social standards, gifts, business cards, dress code
• Sensitive subjects: politics, history, religion
• Humour: a double-edged sword