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Don’t “Sell” the Gulf to the Gulf
He explained the market to locals. The room went quiet.
The Story
In Riyadh, a consultant opened with “how GCC consumers think,” as if the room hadn’t lived it. The sponsor stopped engaging. The second meeting changed everything: the consultant arrived with questions, not lectures. Suddenly, the sponsor taught him, and hired him.
Cultural Principle
In the GCC, expertise is welcomed; condescension is not. Curiosity is the safest form of authority.
Takeaway
Lead with what you’ve observed, then ask: “Is this true in your context?” Let them refine your insight, and deepen your credibility.
With insight,
Taqua