If you’re considering a career in international business, studying abroad can be the ideal preparation. Studying abroad helps you develop many essential “soft skills” that can give you an advantage once you launch your career. You’ll learn how to be adaptable, develop your independence and gain a keen sense of cultural awareness – and that’s just outside of the classroom!
At John Cabot University, international business majors also hone many other important skills during their studies. In the classroom, they’ll learn the theory behind international business ventures, as well as gain a practical hands-on understanding of how some businesses succeed where others have failed.
Here’s a closer look at some of the skills you’ll learn during your studies, and how they’ll help you stand out after graduation.
Knowing how to communicate clearly and effectively is a vital skill for any business student. Once you start your career, you could be responsible for a range of tasks—from writing engaging copy for marketing initiatives to pitching new products, to negotiating contracts and much more. Having excellent communication skills will set you apart from other business professionals.
Communicating effectively in your own native tongue can be challenging enough. However, in an international business setting, you’ll also be expected to develop a nuanced understanding of the unique cultural characteristics of diverse target markets to adapt products, services, and marketing messages as required. For instance, a marketing slogan that might work well at home could run the risk of insulting international buyers with different values. JCU students learn more than simply how to sharpen their communication skills - they also learn the most effective approaches for business communications in different parts of the world, being mindful of cultural sensitivity in everything from marketing plans to supplier relations.
As you’ll soon learn at business school in Italy, the key to developing effective management techniques in an international business setting is to realize that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Through the case study method of teaching, students learn to evaluate the typical risks and rewards of developing multinational partnerships and how to form sustainable, mutually beneficial relationships.
Class discussions, team projects, and other hands-on exercises help to develop these skills. Not only do students learn the theory behind management practices, but they are also given the opportunity to study in a multicultural learning environment with students from as many as 70 different countries.
In any business setting, critical thinking skills are crucial. Business grads routinely put these skills to use carefully analyzing market data, brainstorming solutions to unexpected problems, and discovering untapped opportunities.
In an international business setting, grads will often need to contend with additional challenges. They might be required to navigate tariffs and other trade barriers, plan for currency fluctuations, or quickly develop a contingency plan if a supplier runs out of stock.
The dynamic learning environment at JCU prepares students for the complexities of international business through extensive case studies based on real-world examples. Students learn to identify and analyze potential risks and opportunities, develop financial models and strategic proposals, and explain their findings during class discussions – paving the way to future success both in the classroom and after graduation.
Do you want to gain an international perspective by attending university in Italy?
Discover what sets JCU apart by visiting our website or speaking with one of our counselors.