Corporate cues: top executives explain four business practices to better position you for success in the workplace - Career Strategies

Black Enterprise, March, 2004 by Siobhan Benet

The assignment also helped him develop new business relationships in Europe. "I advanced the careers of several Europeans who worked for me," says Dixon. "Several took international assignments in other countries, including the U.S. Your network expands when you advance someone's career."

Ten years ago, there were only a handful of overseas assignments at Procter & Gamble. Today, it sells its products in more than 160 countries. As a result, the company expects its senior executives to have two to five years of international experience.

"African American executives generally have wonderful overseas assignments," says Dixon. "They experience fewer racial barriers, more socialization and integration with other expatriates, and experience more of the local culture." Living in another country is a life-changing experience. Dixon says you can make the transition smoother by having a plan.

Here are a few considerations:

Finding a home in your new country. Most expats rent instead of buying. Invest a fair amount of time finding a landlord with a good track record with foreigners. The local expat community should be an excellent source of information.

Lifestyle. Things you take for granted can be a challenge overseas, like finding a good hairstylist and a church. Look for other African Americans from the states in the embassy, military, or American women's and men's clubs.

Family. As an executive overseas, you'll have built-in support and a familiar culture in the work environment. However, your family has to develop its own network in the new country. They also have more downtime in the beginning because those social connections are still blossoming, so be prepared to provide emotional support for your family.

Is there an overseas assignment in your future? To be selected, you must possess a strong performance track record, a great reputation, and be culturally sophisticated. "Although English is the international business language, when you know a language like French or Spanish, the door of receptivity just opens up," says Dixon. "Also, in certain relationships with customers or consumers, they only speak the local language. Reach out and let them know you'd like to establish relationships with people from other countries when they visit your headquarters," he says. To get a better feel for the country and its surroundings, get to know the locals.

Getting a global assignment should start as early as business school. Dixon says college and business students should study abroad and master a foreign language. "Be really clear about your aspirations and the series of assignments you need to achieve to get to your goals."

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Successful companies understand their target demographic. Take the New York Knicks, for example. Although the team isn't No. 1 in the NBA, it has a fan base that is loyal--and growing. The Knicks franchise has one of the highest renewal rates for subscription tickets in the league. How do they keep fans coming back, particularly in the New York post-9-11 economy?