This is really quite painful to write, as in the broad sense of the American market, women have become an accepted part of business and in most cases do not have to prove themselves. Recognize the role of women in business outside the United States is a whole and another matter. Of course even within the most civilized countries there will be slip-ups and mishaps. However in certain cultures, as a woman, you may not have any role except coffee/tea pourer no matter that you are a card carrying Harvard graduate.

Explore the customs of the country you are visiting, as they are relevant to women. Become acquainted with local and regional attitudes and cultural differences about women in business. This will help to delineate your line of attack and avoid potential problems during international trade fairs. Be prepared to prove yourself since you may not be taken as seriously as your male counterparts. However, business overseas is based on trust and relationships. And women, like men, are accountable for generating the necessary relationship to achieve their objectives.