Knowing the differences in managerial practices in different countries is interesting. There are, for example, great differences among mangers in the United States as opposed to other countries. With the increasing investment of foreign firms in the United States, the syllabus of business finance is giving more attention to the integration of managers and workers from other countries into American society. This need is highlighted in that the number of inters company transferees has more than tripled from the late 1970's. The Japanese, for example, often find it difficult to be outspoken and direct in interactions with their colleagues and superiors. People from Arabian countries usually find American teaching methods too impersonal. One can learn various approaches used by the managers to reduce culture shock. These include special programs about corporate life in the US, as well as instruction in English, books and movies and tax advice for newcomers.
International business finance is essential in the curriculum of a business finance degree. The study of international business finance focuses on the operation of international firms in host countries. It is concerned with managerial issues related to the flow of people, goods and money. The ultimate aim is to manage more effectively in situations that involve crossing national boundaries. The environmental factors that affect domestic firms usually are more critical for international corporations operating in foreign countries. Managers involved in international business finance are faced with many factors that are different from those of a domestically oriented firm. Managers have to interact with employees who have different educational and cultural backgrounds and value systems. They must also cope with different legal, political and economic factors. Thus, these environments influence the way managerial and enterprise functions are carried out.
