After accepting a job abroad, you will certainly be filled with questions about the workforce practices, traditions, customs and general business protocol. This is especially important in a country as traditionally anchored as India.

Americans generally know very little about other cultures in regards to business practices. It is highly important to learn about a society's history, economics, current events, customs and cultures. Having a general knowledge of your fellow workers background and daily life will help you to have some connection with which to build a business relationship.

After taking a job in India, you should examine the differences between American business protocol and Indian business protocol. In India, business practices differ from sector to sector. While the traditional business sector has adopted a more "Indian mainstream" protocol and work style, heavily laced with strong core work values, the more modern sector is slowly reverting to a more global protocol. The more modern edge to these businesses will be easier for you to adjust to for an American worker.

In years past, American workers have expected they were to be respected and held above others regardless of their business role, level or status. These beliefs, though accepted at one time, are no longer practiced in the Indian business sector. Respect is now to be earned through behavior and authority is directly linked to title, level and status.

I have approached some very broad concepts of working in India. Before officially beginning your job overseas, be sure to ask your employer some very important questions.

* Will there be cross-cultural training?

Many companies offer classes in a country's cultural and business practice.

* Will I be given a language course?

Even a short course in common conversation will make communication much easier.

* Is a grace period available?

Just in case you find you are not suited for the position, asking your employer about a grace period may save your job.

* Will I have an English-speaking guide?

Nothing could be worse than reporting to work your first day only to not understand your guide.

* Will my insurance coverage remain the same?

As long as you do not give up your U.S. citizenship, nothing should change. Covering worker's compensation and in network physicians will prepare you in case of injury or sickness.

Some topics you should also discuss with your employer are:

* Work Hours

* Break Traditions

* Holiday Observances

* Relocation Assistance

* Transportation

Learning all you can about a culture before you begin work will help ease the transition between American and Indian business practices. Many companies will offer classes and training sessions to help make the process a smooth and memorable one.

Learn more about this author, Summer Banks.
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