You (Jane) are a 29-year-old single woman who has an MBA and has been working in your current marketing position for a year. Your firm recently opened a new pilot branch in a somewhat remote Russian location. The CEO of your company believes there are real growth opportunities for your firm’s products in that region and also wants visibility. The company has decided to launch a small office there for visibility as well as to introduce the product. You are one of the most outgoing and talented marketing professionals in your firm. It is believed that you’ll make a positive impression and represent the company well. There is a small community of American business professionals there who will assist you.

Country values there are very dif­ferent from what you are accustomed to. You overhear a discussion between two of your male colleagues who were recently in that country completing arrangements for the office. One says, “Jane’s going to have some interesting challenges with the men she has to do business with. . . . It’s like the Wild West.” The other answered, “Yeah, she’s got some real surprises coming.” Your research suggests that country laws and norms on issues you take for granted (like women’s rights and sexual harassment) are not well defined. 

You have a conflict over wanting to advance with your company but not wanting to take this assignment. You are aware that the CEO has his mind set. In fact, you’ve already had a discussion expressing your concerns and fears. He brushed your issues aside when he told you earlier, “Jane, try it. You need the international exposure and experience.” The second time you approached him with your concerns, he blurted out, “Look, Jane. I understand your concerns, but this is important to me and our company. There are some people there who can help you. I know it’s going to be a challenge. But after a couple of years, you’ll thank me.” You still don’t feel right. 

Questions

1. What do you do, and why?

2. If you do decide to go, what specific preparations should you make?

3. If you decide not to go, draft out the dialogue you would have with your CEO.