I'm sorry you're in this position, I know how anxiety producing it can be. I've been shipped off to the US and to Germany for similar purposes. It can turn out to be a rewarding experience. Remember they'll probably be nervous too, as a visit from head office or the client can be very stress inducing, as they'll want to impress you.

I've worked with a lot of Indians at one of my jobs, and as a broad generalization, I'd say they're more reserved and formal than American's tend to be, so not being super charismatic may actually be an advantage.

you can also take it as a compliment that your company chose you to go. That's a big deal, and shows that they value you as an employee.

Make sure you see a travel Dr. before you go, and get your immunizations up to date - you'll likely just be in major urban centers with good infrastructure, but better safe than sorry.

Finally, I'd see if you can arrange a few days vacation after the work trip to stay on and sight see. I did that one time when I went to Berlin, and it was great. It only cost me 4 night's hotel room, since the airfare was already paid for, and I got to see the city. I used to travel a lot for business and whenever possible I'd try to tack on at least a day or 2 at the end to just play tourist.

Good luck.

splitimage