#1 Understanding the Local Context
While technical skills are crucial, it’s essential not to underestimate the importance of soft skills in a different country. It’s advisable to develop a solid understanding of Vietnamese etiquette and business practices.
In the Vietnamese context, this involves being patient and adaptable to integrate the country’s business practices. Successful companies in Vietnam emphasize the importance of this knowledge, gained through both experience and connections with local experts.
#2 Building Relationships on the Ground
To bridge the cultural gap, LittleBig Connection has employed local project managers to act as intermediaries between clients and Vietnamese developers, ensuring that expectations and communication are effectively managed. Through this intermediary, work has been distributed differently and more appropriately.
#3 Adapting to Working Methods
Projects carried out in a Vietnamese setting progress more efficiently when clear direction and specific task objectives are defined. As operational professionals, providing a structured framework that emphasizes detailed instructions can significantly boost their effectiveness.
Additionally, finding competent senior-level frameworks can be challenging. Therefore, it’s important to recognize and train local talents, who may lack field experience but are often eager to learn and adapt.
#4 Defining an Adapted Strategy
To succeed in assignments in Vietnam or to expand there, numerous external factors need to be considered. With a new generation of the middle class shaping the market, it’s crucial to understand and adopt the latest consumer trends to grow in the country.
Another piece of advice for approaching this country: consider it not only for its domestic market but also as a regional logistics center. Given its strategic position in the Asia Pacific, it would be remiss to view Vietnam only through its low-cost workforce.
Working with Vietnamese teams presents an excellent opportunity for international companies. With the appropriate approaches, such as those promoted by LittleBig Connection, operational professionals can execute successful projects and build lasting relationships. By adapting to the Vietnamese context, investing in local relationships, and adopting a task-oriented management approach, companies will be well-positioned to leverage the tremendous potential of this rapidly growing market.
