Bosnian language training is important for the businessperson who wants to step into the mind and context of the Bosnian culture. While most other countries speak English, it is beneficial in business to be able to converse in the native language of your prospective business partners. Bosnian language training classes can provide an insider's view into the culture and it may open business opportunity doors that were previously closed to you.

Lack of cultural sensitivity can lead to mistrust and to an inability to cooperate, negotiate, and compromise. In business, this is never good. If you want to take a Bosnian language class, determine which of these areas you would like to focus on in the training because it will help you to decide which type of training you should pursue:

1. Conversational Bosnian

2. Business Bosnian

3. Bosnian grammar with the help of Bosnian language courses

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Try a conversation exchange to learn Bosnian fast

A language exchange is a way for two or more people who speak different languages to practice speaking each others language. The participants can live in separate countries and converse via chat software, and can correspond via email to practice writing the foreign language. If the two speakers live in the same state they can meet up to speak with each other in person.

I recommend: Learning the language from someone who is a native speaker is a great way to pick up on conversational Bosnian. MyLanguageExchange.com offers structured Bosnian language courses supplemented by the chats with native speakers of Bosnian. ConversationExchange.com does not offer a structured learning program, but puts you in touch with native Bosnian speakers so that you can fine tune your Bosnian.

Use CDs to learn to speak Bosnian

CDs are a great way to experience Bosnian language classes. Many language learners are uncomfortable taking a course in a group setting because they fear they do not speak well enough. Learning a language on CD is an inexpensive way to learn to speak Bosnian, and the student can go at her own pace.

I recommend: Transparent Language has a product called Before You Know It, which allows users to customize lessons. You can concentrate on grammar if you like or you can focus on vocabulary building because the program allows users to customize the way to learn the Bosnian language. LingvoSoft.com has created a language learning software program that includes dictionaries, speech-enabled translation applications and travelers software.

Enroll at a university for Bosnian language classes

Foreign language courses offered at universities often combine the history and culture of a country along with learning the language itself. Some universities offer special programs that allow for exchange students. The student goes to the host country and is immersed in the foreign language and culture which is a quick way to learn a language.

I recommend: The University of Missouri-Saint Louis offers conversational Bosnian language training. Indiana University sponsors a program called SWSEEL, Summer Workshop in Slavic, East European and Central Asian Languages, which sends participants to countries like Bosnia to learn the language and culture.

Learn to speak Bosnian words and phrases online

For quick reference, concentrate on picking up some basic words and phrases to help break the ice at your business meetings in Bosnia. The online resources are useful for people who don't have much time, but need to learn some of the language.

I recommend: 101languages.net is a website that offers a free online Bosnian language course. Linguata.com designs language building software. Their emphasis is on building a vocabulary of words and phrases quickly.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Get a friend to learn to speak Bosnian with you. Taking a language class is more fun with people that you know, plus you will automatically have someone else with whom you can practice your Bosnian.