Dimensions of Success in International Business Negotiations: A Comparative Study of Thai and International Business Negotiators

Abstract

The success of international business relationships depends on effective business negotiations. Negotiators need to be well prepared. Understanding how to achieve international business negotiation outcomes and the factors relevant to the process will allow negotiators to be more successful. Based on theories of negotiation with a cultural focus, this study focuses on the dimensions of negotiating outcomes and process as perceived by Thai and International business negotiators related to past cross-cultural international business negotiations. From a review of negotiation practices a questionnaire focusing on positive retrospective negotiation experiences was developed and sent to executives working in Thailand. The results indicate that the important outcomes for successful cross-cultural negotiators are future-oriented prospects and performance. An information focus and a relationship orientation are the dominant keys to success identified by both Thai and International negotiators. Tactics and protocol are much less emphasized in successful experiences. International business negotiators significantly emphasize a specific time orientation more than their Thai counterparts.