Speaking for Someone Requires More Than Their Permission

The Story
In Kuwait City, a mediator was asked to relay a position on behalf of a respected principal who could not attend a meeting. He delivered the message accurately. The room listened, responded, then - almost reflexively - asked when the principal himself would be available. The message had been received. The authority behind it had not traveled.

Cultural Principle
In Gulf business culture, representation carries weight only when the representative is already known and trusted by the room. A message conveyed through someone unfamiliar to the group often returns to its sender, waiting.

Takeaway
Before agreeing to speak for someone, ask whether the room knows you. If they do not, consider what must be established first, or request that the principal appear briefly before the delegation begins.

With insight,
Taqua