How much Asian business lost in translation?

As North-East Asia becomes increasingly important to businesses across all sectors, with everyone from SMEs upwards looking to break into profitable areas, a successful EU programme continues to help EU-based businesses understand the secrets of the Japanese and Korean markets.

Individuals from both large and small companies are encouraged to develop their skills and business links in these countries by applying to join the Executive Training Programmes (ETP) in Japan and Korea, which are fully funded by the European Commission (EC). SHL, the world leader in objective assessment, is the programme partner for this exciting scheme, and is helping to recruit individuals to take part in the next programmes, which start in March (Korea) and May (Japan) 2005.

The ETP is designed to help firms immerse key executives in Japanese and Korean language, culture and business practices, as well as build closer links with this exciting and prosperous region. Based full time in Japan or Korea, during the programmes, participants will quickly develop language skills and a detailed understanding of how business is conducted. The programmes include; seminars addressing different aspects of the national business environment, home stays with local families and the opportunity to place candidates in quality organisations, carefully selected by their employer, to enhance business relationships.

The scheme benefits participating companies by developing their own in-house regional market expert - essential in helping support operations in a region where successful business is done on the basis of mutual understanding and long-lasting relationships.

The ETP is open to any EU-based company active in, or exporting to, Japan or Korea, or with a clear strategy for these countries. The EC is particularly interested in helping SMEs to build links with the region. Successful individuals will be in-full time employment with their EU-based sponsor company, have a university degree or equivalent, and at least two years of working experience.

John Patrick, the SHL consultant heading the programme in the UK said: This programme is a perfect way for businesses to foster closer links with the Far East, including perhaps a lower risk route to China. It is a cost-effective means of developing the talent and skills of key
individuals, and we urge companies of all sizes to take advantage of the opportunity.

Robert Peer, BAE Systems said: With great opportunities in the Korean market, my company recognised the benefit of the ETP which offers a unique chance to a detailed knowledge and understanding of the Korean people, language and business attitudes. These knowledges will definitely further my career in winning business in the South Korean
defence and aerospace market.

Companies wishing to find out more should visit www.etp.org contact John Patrick on 01483 575772 or John.Patrick@shlgroup.com Deadline for applications is end July 2004.