A survey of 40 individuals in various positions in the field of international business in Michigan investigated perceptions about the kind of preparation necessary to function successfully either as an expatriate abroad or in international work from a home base in the United States. Results were similar to those found in the literature. Functional expertise was considered to be the most critical skill contributing to performance while language skills were rated second most critical. Knowledge of cultural practices was considered much less important than knowledge of human relations skills and of business practices in the foreign country. While 70% believed that an individual formally educated in business and foreign language skills would be a good business candidate, marketing and sales were identified as the areas in which the candidate would be successful. It is concluded that foreign language skills and cultural knowledge may be less valued than functional expertise because little documented evidence shows that these factors predict success internationally. Further research in this area is recommended. (Author/MSE)