Text. Discuss the text below.

UNIT 10.

B. Discussion topics.

Ex.4. A. Answer the following questions.

1. What are the main services a bank should provide?

2. Which foreign banking system do you most admire? Why?

1. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the banking system in your own country.

2. Give your reasons for and against state-owned banks.

Being a Manager in Russia (II)

Decision Making. In general, many businesses retain a strong hierarchical structure. Employees show respect to those in positions of authority. Russians generally value age, rank, and protocol. Managers tend to be dictatorial and autocratic. They expect their subordinates to follow established procedures without question. Subordinates do not publicly challenge their manager, as it would make the manager lose dignity and respect. Managers are not comfortable empowering employees.

Boss or Team Player. Cross cultural knowledge and understanding of the hierarchical system is essential. Successful intercultural management will understand the importance of maintaining their positions of authority. Subordinates are comfortable being dictated to as it is often the only way they have seen business conducted. Some younger, more entrepreneurial Russians may find the old ways tiring and time-consuming, especially if they have lived in a foreign country.

Communication and Negotiation Styles. Meetings and negotiations are slow. Russians, especially middle-aged and older do not like being rushed. It takes time for Russians to become warm towards foreign businesspeople. In the first meeting it is best if you appear dignified and firm, yet approachable. Once a relationship is established, allow yourself to be seen as reliable, down to earth, and sincere. Hierarchy is important to Russians. Make sure you have written materials available in both English and Russian to avoid any possible cross cultural misunderstanding. Likewise, hire an interpreter if you need to. Be sure to bring all the copies of everything you need from your home country. Faxes, copy machines, and computers may not be readily available outside of Moscow. Russians are not always comfortable trying new ways of doing things. Do prepare your team in advance so that you have a unified front in the meeting. Russians may lose their temper, walk out of the meeting, or threaten to terminate the relationship in an attempt to coerce you to change your position. Careful minutes, called "protokol" should be taken during the meeting and signed at the end by everyone present. Nothing is final until the contract is signed. Even then, Russians will modify a contract to suit their purposes. Make sure you have an expert in Russian law review your contract thoroughly. Contracts should be translated into both Russian and English.

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