Do not show haste or demand rapid results Recognize that international dealings can be expected to take longer than domestic ones. The reasons include differences in language, legal systems and decision making processes, the need for at least one party to consult head office in another country, and so on. Make it clear at the outset that you are keen to reach a satisfactory conclusion but do not give the impression of impatience, then or later.

Take account of personalities. Learn all you can beforehand about the general negotiating style of the country concerned, but bear in mind that some of the individuals you are dealing with may not follow the general pattern.

Try not to take offence. Do not assume that delays or other elements that you find irritating are deliberate.

Do nothing to add friction. Make sure that your own negotiating style does not needlessly conflict with the local one. Never utter or imply any criticism of the way things are done or suggest that the practice in your own country is better. Do not make ultimatums or publicly argue someone into a position from which there is no face saving retreat.

Look below the surface. Do not always take words at their face value. An unqualified "yes" can normally be taken to mean what it says. But  many cultures will take great care to avoid a flat "No".
If you are told that something you have asked for " may be difficult" it could well mean " No, we cannot accept that in any circumstance". Watch the speakers body language, respect the need to maintain face, and do not press for details at that stage if they are not volunteered. You may find out more in private conversation later.

Keep objectives in mind. Not only your own, but those of the other party. In a business context, it is usually easy to see what your own objectives should not be - not simply to "win", nor to prove superiority of political or industrial strength, ability, or business or cultural systems. Nor are you there to reform the other country. The usual objective is to reach a viable and lasting agreement on certain matters necessary to secure profitable business for your company.

Getting to Yes Implicit in the words "viable" and "lasting" is the concept that any agreement should be satisfactory to both parties, in other words, a " win/win" outcome. Therefore an initial objective must be to establish as clear an idea as possible of what the other party will regard as a gainful outcome. Their measure of it may  not be the same as you own, particularly in terms of time or money. Do not reject innovative suggestions, if they help to reach agreement. Suggest them whenever possible.

Maintain Communication. Words are easily misheard or misunderstood. Make notes of what you thought was agreed at a meeting and distribute them to the other parties, with a request for correction if you have it wrong. Take care to include people who may have missed an earlier meeting.