An Englishman in Bucharest 

1st November, 2005

 

As a British citizen, Keith Parker (41) has lived and worked in Central Europe for a decade now, gaining in-depth knowledge about business as well as local and regional market specificities. As Trainer and Key Account Manager, Keith is actively involved in the operations of the Develor regional network. Today, he is sharing some of his experiences in Romania.

In what ways has the experience exceeded your expectations? Any surprises?

  • I think - like many people from the west - you hear stories about how bad things are and the problems, but what I actually experience here is a bustling Central European city with the wish to do business and readiness to take on the challenge.

In what ways has the experience exceeded your expectations? Any surprises?

I think - like many people from the west - you hear stories about how bad things are and the problems, but what I actually experience here is a bustling Central European city with the wish to do business and readiness to take on the challenge.

The main thing that struck me this time and the time before was that the people were so open. They smiled and were keen to help.

What were your impressions of Romanian businessmen?

I found them very straightforward. There is a great openness about the way the meeting is held. They are uncomplicated, easy to speak to and say frankly what they are up to. I felt no problem about asking questions on the decision-making process or on budget. In some countries you feel that people will be offended if you ask, but not there. I feel it may be sensed throughout the Balkan region - called trust.

What would you say are the main training needs in the Romanian market?

At the moment, I believe Sales, Communication and Presentation Skills are basic needs, as they are selling to a more mature international market. Plus the market will get bigger in the next few years. There is also the normal problem of talking to expat bosses. I feel in the future there will be the need for more complex training and human development solutions as the HR community gets stronger and companies have the ability to use more long-term strategies.