Asia Connects Conference Index

Taking Culture into Account:
Winnipeg's Zoo Director Talks About Asia and Zoo Business

By Terri-Lynn MacIntosh

My name is Terri-Lynn MacIntosh. I am a high school graduate and a delegate of the Asia Connects conference, to be held in Winnipeg, Manitoba this fall. Recently, I was given the opportunity to conduct a business interview in Winnipeg with the Director of the Assiniboine Park Zoo, Mr. Doug Ross. I had never thought of as zoo as having business in other countries before, so it was quite interesting to hear what Mr. Ross had to say.
Terry- What percentage of your business is done in Asia and with which countries?

Doug- I'm not sure of the actual percentage, but I do know that it is a very small amount of our business that is done with countries of the Asia Pacific. Being a zoo, we deal mostly with other zoos in Canada and the United States, sending animals back and forth. But we do deal with a number of Asian countries on different levels. These being mainly Japan, Australia and Taiwan. With our sister city in China (??),we share the great panda exhibit with and exchange gifts.

Terry- How do you compare business dealings with Asia to western nations?

Doug- Well, in Asia, especially in China, there is a lot more protocol to follow than we have over here in the west. A lot of our business depends on having good friendships and gift exchanges with the countries. Personal friendships are also very important and help to clear the way to better understanding.

Terry- What about language?

Doug- Yes, there is always the language barrier. Many times we've had to use interpreters, but we've never had trouble understanding each other or communicating to date. As I've said good friendships and smiles help a lot. Also, sometimes we might go through a local organization that has connections with the country, like the Chinese Cultural Center.

Terry- How much does culture play a role in business? Is it essential to understand cultures in order to do business?

Doug- I think culture plays a large role in business dealings. As I mentioned earlier, using China as an example, they have a lot more protocol as most of their business dealings are viewed as a matter of honor. As for it being essential to understand the culture, I don't think that business is dependent on that. It's nice to understand it but not necessary. It is however essential to be sensitive to the culture and how that effects your business dealings as well as your friendships.

Terry- One last question. What in your opinion would improve business relations between Canada and Asia Pacific?

Doug- I'd have to say, probably, learning more about each other. It may be expensive, but traveling is definitely the best way to do that. Traveling to other countries and having them travel to yours helps to deepen understanding of one and others culture and helps to better communication between Asia and ourselves. It's sort of like the more you do, the more you travel, the more you gain. All of which helps to improve business relations and friendships.

asia@tgmag.ca