Connecting the Dots with Culture in Business

Let’s get down to it, y’all—culture! Culture is that rich backstory that explains why folks do what they do. And let me tell you, in business, it’s not just about knowing the numbers. You’ve gotta understand the soul behind those numbers.

Down here in the South, we know a thing or two about hospitality. You don’t just waltz into someone’s home and start asking for something before you’ve been offered a seat or a glass of sweet tea. That same rule applies to the business world, no matter where you are. Every culture has its own version of hospitality, and if you take the time to dance to their rhythm, trust me, the music flows a whole lot smoother.

Take my time in Colombia, for example. Business there isn’t just about shaking hands and diving into contracts. There’s a warmth that surrounds everything—people greet you with a kiss on the cheek (or two, depending on the region!), and you might find yourself chattin' over a good cup of coffee before anything business-related even comes up. 

And honey, let me tell you—those conversations over coffee? That’s where the magic happens. Those are the moments where you truly connect, where the real deals are made. When you can embrace the cultural flow and recognize that business isn't just transactional but relational, you’ll find doors opening you didn’t even know existed.

At the end of the day, it’s all about connecting the dots between culture and business. When you take the time to understand and appreciate how people move and what they value, you’re not just doing business—you’re building relationships that last.

So next time you’re stepping into a new cultural space, take a moment to feel the rhythm of their hospitality. I promise you, it’ll make all the difference!