David smith was sent Moscow to develop a working relationship with a large Russian firm. When he met the company's Russian branch director, he gave his best smile, handshake and friendly joke…only to be met with a dreary and unhappy look. Later, Smith learned that Russian culture fosters smiling in private settings and seriousness business settings.
What does this example show about doing business in a different culture?
What do you advise Mr. Smith to do?