If global networking and overseas travel is secondhand for you, you have no doubt developed a routine that ensures that travel and lodging as well as business prep is optimized for effortless execution. Or that is the plan.

Packing the suitcase should be reduced to a chore using only a few moments, preferably by packing identical items for all trips, including all electronics back ups.

If you’ve never been to the country before, try to arrive a couple of days early so that you can stroll about and take in the rhythm and cultural milieu within which you will be operating.

“For first-time visits, I like to arrive in a country on Saturday and spend the weekend wandering around observing people’s behavior. I gain a sense of the pace and the culture: how fast people walk, how they gesture when they talk, what they wear, what they read. It puts me in sync for my Monday meetings.”

Be prepared by having your office create a briefing packet with all relevant economic and business news or research it yourself on the internet.

In some countries, such as Asia, Africa and South America, a gift is customary - something simple and tasteful.

Finally,no matter how psyched you are about your product or service, boasting will hinder rather than help.

“In many cultures it’s considered impolite to boast about yourself or your company’s accomplishments. However, talking about your children and asking about those of your hosts is a great way to bond. Also, work in references to your philanthropic activities. It suggests you will share your success with local worthy causes ”
(Source)