The Importance of Cross-Cultural Management - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 6 Words: 1686 Downloads: 10 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Management Essay Type Analytical essay Did you like this example? 1. Introduction Cross cultural management is the study of the behaviour of people in organizations located in cultures and nations around the world (Nancy 1983, p.226). Cross Cultural management is increasingly gaining importance. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "The Importance of Cross-Cultural Management" essay for you Create order Expanding international trade and continued immigration flows has resulted in the work place filled with people from diverse cultural backgrounds (Tjosvold and Leung 2003, p.1). Companies from different parts of the world are operating across many countries, forming mergers, forming joint ventures and strategic alliances to participate in the global marketplace (ibid). Cross cultural management is a necessity for many organizations as they become more globalized. There are various models and frameworks available for cross cultural analysis which the organizations can use for effectively working across different cultures. This paper would evaluate two models of cross culture namely Hoffstede and Trompenaars with reference to two countries: United Kingdom and India. The paper would also identify the strengths and weaknesses of the models and illustrate it by considering the cultures of UK and India. The discussion in the paper would be limited to only two models with reference to the c ultures of only two nations. 2. Hofstede Cultural Dimensions Geert Hofstede in 1980 published cultures consequences which was very influential and became a major source of referencing about cultural differences in the world (Luger p.12). Geert Hofstede defines national culture as a set of collective beliefs and values that distinguish people between different nationalities (Vance et al 2010, p.50). Hofstede conducted a study of more than 100,000 individuals from fifty different countries and three regions while he was working as a psychologist at IBM (ibid). Hofstede initially identified and validated four cultural dimensions and later identified fifth cultural dimension for which he presented the possible origins, predictors and consequences of management behaviours (Rosenhauer 2007, p.20). The five cultural dimensions that were identified by Hofstede are: Power Distance Individualism Collectivism Uncertainity Avoidance Masculinity versus Femininity Long term versus Short term Orientation (Bode 2007, p.10) 1. Power Distance: Power Distance is the way the society addresses inequalities among people when they occur (Falkenreck 2009, p.59 ). This dimension describes the extent to which the less powerful members of the organizations and institutions accept and expect the power to be distributed unequally (ibid). Power distance norms are reflected in the economic and cultural lives of humans as in parent-child relations, husband-wife relations, politics, religion and economics (Tian 2004, p.19). 2. Individualism-Collectivism Individualism-Collectivism describes the degree to which individuals are integrated into groups. It is used to measure the extent to which a culture values individual achievement compared to the achievements of a group. This dimension stresses as important work goals in which individual is an active agent and independent of the organization, rather than those in which the individual is dependent on the organization. (Tian 2009, p.20) 3. U ncertainity Avoidance The uncertainity avoidance dimension reflects the extent to which people in a society feel threatened by ambiquity and therefore tries to avoid ambiguous situations by providing greater certainity and predictability (Adler and Gundersen 2008, p.57). Organizations reduce uncertainity by establishing more formal rules, rejecting deviant ideas and behaviour, accepting the possibility of identifying absolute truths and attaining unquestionable expertise, and providing employees with greater career stability (ibid). 4. Masculinity versus Femininity A masculine culture is basically a performance driven culture where rewards and recognitions are the primary motivational factors for achievement. In masculine societies individuals are supposed to be ambitious, assertive, competitive and willing to take risks in order to achieve their goals. On contrary, in feminine culture people tend to emphasize the quality of whole life rather than money, success and social status. (Vance 2010, p.53) 5. Long term versus Short term Orientation This dimension refers to the extent to which a society exhibits a pragmatic future oriented perspective rather than a conventional historic or short term point of view (Have et al 2002, p.100) This dimension is also referred to as Confucian Dynamism vowing to its observance predominantly in eastern countries. It measures employees devotion to the work ethic and their respect for tradition (Adler and Gundersen 2008, p.60). 2.1 Hofstede model applied to United Kingdom The Geert Hofstede analysis for United Kingdom illustrates that there are strong feelings towards individualism and masculinity in United Kingdom. The power distance and uncertainty avoidance are ranked considerably lower. Long-term orientation ranks the lowest, indicating that change in England can be achieved more rapidly than in many other countries. (Cyborlink 2007, United Kingdom) 2.2 Hofstede model applied to India. The Geert Hofstede analysis for India shows a large power distance society and all other measures are relatively moderate. This would be indicative of the fact that India is in the midst of change. The traditional caste systems has been outlawed, however the large power distance score indicates that the attitudes still remain. (Cyborlink 2007, India) Indias Long Term Orientation (LTO) Dimension rank is 61, with the world average at 48. A higher LTO score can be indicative of a culture that is perseverant and parsimonious. (ibid) India has Masculinity as the third highest ranking Hofstede Dimension at 56, with the world average just slightly lower at 51. The higher the country ranks in this Dimension, the greater the gap between values of men and women. It may also generate a more competitive and assertive female population, although still less than the male population. (ibid) 2.3 Criticisms of Hofstede model There has been a great deal of criticism on Hofstedes five dimension model. A major criticism arises on the research methodology that Hofstede has employed (Gooderham and Nordhaug 2003, p.139). Hofstedes research is entirely based on on attitude-survey questionnaire, which is not the most appropriate way of studying culture (ibid). Hofstedes data collection was pursued not with the purpose of studying culture but the model was developed as an afterthought after data collection (Silverthorne 2005, p.15). Hofstede in his research has used exploratory factor analysis as a statistical technique to develop the cultural dimensions (Silverthorne 2005, p.15). This appraoch is not considered statistically valid as it is based on trying a variety of options until one appears to fit rather than the more rigorous statistical approach of testing a specific set of parameters based on specfic hypothesis (ibid). Hofstede studied only one company i.e, IBM which is a major company with strong cor porate culture and was predominantly male populated at the time of data collection. It is not certain if the research is now conducted in the same company itself would yield similar results (ibid). Hompstedes research has also been criticised as outdated (Gooderham and Nordhaug 2003, p.140). It is argued that the younger generation from the developing countries are converging at a common set of values due to globalization and hence the cultural dimensions may become less significant (ibid). Hofstede, however has been sceptical of this view and argues that the cultural changes happen slowly (ibid). 3. Trompenaars Cultural Dimension Trompenaars, an European researcher conducted an extensive research with 15,000 managers from 28 countries representing 47 national cultures (Aswathappa 2008, p.186). Trompenaars describes the cultural differences using seven dimensions namely 1. Universalism vs. particularism The degree of importance a culture assigns to either the law or to personal relationships. In a universalistic culture, people share the belief that general rules, codes, values and standards take precedence over the needs and claims of friends and other relationships. In a pluralistic culture, people see culture in terms of human friendship and intimate relationships. While rules do exist in a pluralistic culture, they merely codify how people relate to one another. (Proven Models 2010) According to Trompenaars finding UK is more universalist and India is more of a particularist (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.138). 2. Individualism vs. collectivism This dimension centers on whether the individu al rights and values are dominant or subordinate to those of collective society. (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.138 ) The findings indicate that United Kingdom is more individualistic and India is more of a collectivist (ibid). 3. Neutral vs. emotional This dimension deals with the intensity of emotions expressed at workplace. It indicates whether emotional or subjective forms of assesment are thought to be the basis for good decision making in organizations. (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.138-139 ) 4. Specific vs. diffuse This dimension centers on whether the work relationships exist just in the work place (specific) or extends beyond the work place in social context (diffuse). (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.139 ) 5. Achievement vs. ascription This cultural dimension refers to an individuals status in organizations where credibility, authority, power tend to be based on achievements or based on class, gender, education or age. (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.139 ) In this aspect in United Kingdom respect is earned more by achievements (Nardon and Steers 2009, p.6). 6. Sequential vs. Synchronic This dimension deals with the degree to which individuals do things one at a time versus several things at once. Time orientation has two aspects: the relative importance cultures assign to the past, present and future, and their approach to structuring time. In a sequential culture, people structure time sequentially and do things one at a time. In a synchronic time culture, people do several things at once, believing time is flexible and intangible. (Proven Models 2010) The findings suggest that people in United Kingdom follow sequential pattern for time whereas Indians follow Synchronic pattern of time(Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.139 ). 7. Internal vs. external control (ibid) In this dimension emphasis is placed on peoples relationship with nature and the natural environment. Some culture emphasize control and subjugation of environ mental forces while others emphasize the need to work with nature in harmony with the environment. Religious and philosphical differences across the world greatly influences this dimension (Rugman and Collinson 2009, p.139 ). It has been observed that the United Kingdom is more inner-directed whereas India is more Outer-directed (Nardon and Steers 2009, p.6). 3.1 Criticisms of Trompenaars model The Trompenaars model and Hofstede model share many similarities but still Trompenaar and Hofstede disagree on various aspects (Rosenhauer 2007, p.22). Hofstede argues that the dimensions identified by Trompenaar are actually categories as the dimensions should be statistically independent (Hostede 2001, p.223). Hofstede also points out that Trompenaars extensive questionnaire measured only intercorrelated flavours of individualism (Hofstede 2001, p.223). The application of Trompenaars model indicates that former communist countries such as Czech Republic, Hungary and Russia are relatively individualistic in contrast to their communist history which does not seem to be a plausible explaination of cultural difference (Gooderham and Nordhaug 2003, p.145).

The Right to Strike Policies, Ethics, and Labor Unions

From an ethical point of view, the debate over whether public employees have the right to strike centers on the political and philosophical differences between conservatives and liberals or progressives in American society. Classical liberals (conservatives), with their ethics based on the concepts of John Locke and Adam Smith, assert that the social contract between the people and the state protects the individual rights of life, liberty and property, but beyond that autonomous individuals should be left to pursue their own interests with minimal interference from the state of society. For this reason, they would deny the right of collective organizations like unions to control personal autonomy and free choice, and insist that all persons are ultimately egotistical and self-interested. 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Fundamentals of Nevada History Free Essays

The year was 1864 and it was the beginning of May when an election would take place in June that would decide the second constitutional convention. This convention unlike the one in 1863; this one would establish the Nevada Enabling Act, but would have restrictions that the constitution written would have to follow under the following guidelines: (1) The new State Constitution must be republican in nature and not repugnant to the Federal Constitution or the Declaration of Independence; 2) there shall be no slavery or involuntary servitude other than for punishment of crimes, without the consent of the United States and the people of Nevada; (3) the Constitutional Convention must disclaim all rights to inappropriate lands in Nevada; (4) land owned by U. S. We will write a custom essay sample on Fundamentals of Nevada History or any similar topic only for you Order Now Citizens outside Nevada must not be discriminated against in taxation; and (5) there must be no taxation of federal property in the state. (Michael W. Bowers 2005). This was a time that Nevada was not statehood and Lincoln needed more electoral votes for the passage of his Thirteenth Amendment which would abolish slavery. Another reason was so that Lincoln could use Novena’s vote to win the 1864 presidential election. The final reason was the dividing of the electoral votes were to even; Lincoln felt if it came down to this it would be left in the House of Representatives hands and he may lose, but by making Nevada a statehood he would be able to win over Nevada giving him another statehood vote and more of a republican power in the House. Civil Rights in Nevada History Although in 1864 the Thirteenth Amendment was passed there was still racism, aggregation, and discrimination in Nevada which has been called later as the â€Å"Mississippi of the West†. Although voting rights had been established; Nevada citizens that were white felt that they were an inferior race and that other races of color should not have the same privileges or their white Anglo-Saxon brothers and sisters. African Americans were not able to testify against any white individual in a court of law due to them being presumed â€Å"untrustworthy’. Another issue was that they were not able to work in the state of Nevada as whites had the privileges of doing so. During the building of the Hoover Dam blacks were not eligible for hire and were not able to gamble or stay at the Hotels on the strip if they worked there. Entertainers like Leona Horns and Sammy Davis Jar. Could not stay there after they performed there, and they would have to go to the Million Rouge if they wanted that type of entertainment which was where blacks had to go in order to have the same type of entertainment. Once the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964 all of this had to come to an end and Nevada was then forced to follow suit. Mining and Gamin History of Nevada In 1863 there were also arguments about the mining and gaming industry taxation against agriculture. Cow herders and farmers felt that the taxation for the mining industry should be more seeing it was outside owners of these companies from San Francisco and other states that would come to Nevada and capitalize off of the land. They were being taxed the same but profit was much larger. Some would go on to even say that Nevada was the state that built San Francisco. The mining companies stands was that without their business all of the stores would be removed, farms old be dried up and streets would turn elsewhere. How to cite Fundamentals of Nevada History, Papers

auto saftey Essay Example For Students

auto saftey Essay Safety is very important in the automotive shop. Knowing and following all your safety rules can help prevent injury and damage. There are many different little sections of safety in the shop for example, gasoline handling, housekeeping, general shop, fire, and hazardous materials. Its recommended for the people to first know the rules and later apply them as they go on. There are also laws involved regarding hazardous waste disposals. So there fore they have to know the proper disposal methods. The Occupational Safety and Health Act was passed down by the United States government in 1970. This act is to teach the citizens of the United States about safety and good working conditions, and also providing them with information and training about safety and health. Shop hazards can be avoided by following the safety rules and procedures of the shop. Here are some hazards. * Flammable liquids must be stored properly away from fire. * Batteries contain corrosive sulfuric acid solution and produce explosive hydrogen gas while charging. * All types of liquids can be harmful either to the skin or eyes. *High-pressure air can be very dangerous if penetrates the skin and goes into bloodstream* Electrical equipment and lights may result in electrical shock. * Carbon monoxide from vehicle exhaust is poisonous. * Loose clothing, jewelry, long hair may entangle in rotating parts causing serious injury. * High noise levels from shop equipment can be harmful to the ears. * Oil, grease, water in shop floors can cause someone to slip and fall causing injury. Personal protection in the automotive shop. Here is some equipment you should and should not wear. * Always wear safety goggles or face shield in the shop. * Wear ear plugs or covers if high noise is encountered. * Always wear boots or shoes to provide foot protection, and falling. * Do not wear watches jewelry or rings when working on a vehicle. * Wear a respirator when working in dusty conditions. Electrical safety is good to know to be aware of what can happen. * Frayed cords on electrical equipment must be replaced or repaired immediately. * All electric cords from lights and electric equipment must have a ground connection. Three-prong electrical outlets should be mandatory in all shops. * Do not leave electrical equipment running and unattended. Gasoline safety is very important because it is an explosive liquid. The most dangerous part about gasoline its the expanding vapors. The vapors in gasoline tanks are controlled but the ones from the gasoline storage containers arent. Here are some facts about gasoline. * Always use the proper gasoline containers that are painted red for proper identification. * Do not fill gasoline containers completely to the top, because gasoline expands at high temperatures. * Store gasoline in a very ventilated area. Except in home or in the trunk of your car. * Do not prime an engine with gasoline while cranking the engine. * Never use gasoline as a cleaning agent. Housekeeping safety is very important. Its necessary to keep the floor clean. Always keep the shop neat, pick up tools and parts, and dont leave creepers lying on the floor. All sewer covers must fit properly and be kept securely in place. Fire extinguishers are always needed in a shop. Everyone in the shop must know where it is located, and how to use it. First, get close to the fire without risking your own safety. Grab firmly and aim at fire. Pull pin and squeeze handle to dispense the contents of the extinguisher. Keep in mind that most extinguishers discharge their contents in 8 to 25 seconds. There should always be a first-aid kit in the classroom. These kits are made up of bandages and ointment required for minor cuts. A person should always be in charge of the first-aid kit and always keeping it full. In conclusion safety is very important to know once you enter a shop. If you do not know the proper procedures you may get seriously injured.