Terri Morrison

Terri Morrison is a highly accomplished author and speaker with decades of experience in the fields of business and international communications. Through her writing, Terri has shed a light on the cultural and language considerations associated with conducting business internationally – something which is ever important in an increasingly globalized world.

Born in the United States, Terri studied Asian Studies and Japanese Language at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Upon graduating in 1979, and joined the team at Kintetsu International Express Travel Bureau in Los Angeles. During her five-year tenure as the Corporate and Leisure Travel Manager, she acquired extensive communication skills and experiences working with travelers from all over the world. Realizing the need to become more proficient in the language of her clients, she embarked on a study tour of Japan, where she gained her knowledge in Japanese business etiquette and cultural communication.

In the early ’80s, Terri relocated to London to assume the position of International Communications Manager with ARCO Petroleum International and then moved to Zurich in a similar position with Getty Petroleum International. It was here that she started writing, which led to the development of her first publication, Negotiating International Business – The Negotiator’s Reference Guide to 50 Countries Around the World. Published in 1991, the bestselling book built on her experience in international communication and helped establish Terri as an influential and authoritative voice in the field of business communication and etiquette.

In the years that followed, Terri wrote two more bestselling books, Kiss, Bow or Shake Hands, Teaching and Learning the Ways of the World and KiSS, Bow or Shake Hands: Europe. The latter earned her numerous accolades, including the 2008 Global Alliance Award for Cultural Acumen. Published in 2009, Kiss, Bow or Shake Hands, Business japan is the fourth installment in the series and provides in-depth guidance on cultural and language considerations in Japan. It earned Terri the 2010 Axiom Award for Best Business Book.

In addition to her tremendous literary contributions, Terri speaks internationally to organizations and universities, equipping them with a better understanding of the cultural differences that arise in international business scenarios. For her influence on the field of business culture and communication, Terri has been awarded the 2017 Global Communicator of the Year Award presented by NAIWE – the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors.

Over the decades, Terri has stayed true to her passion and mission of global understanding, utilizing her knowledge and experience to inspire people to conduct international business in an effective and culturally-sensitive manner. Through her books, lectures and teachings, she has propelled the globalization of communication, which continues to spread and bridge language gaps.