T a s d I q L a y m a n

WORKING ACROSS CULTURES

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Working, entertaining, negotiating and corresponding with colleagues from 
different cultures can be quite difficult. One misunderstanding could have a negative 
effect on months of work. Understanding intercultural differences can help 
communication with colleagues from other cultures. According to Hofstede, if we 
compare the key factors in our own culture with those in another culture, we can predict 
possible difficulties.
Hierarchical or egalitarian?
Some cultures, like Malaysia and Indonesia, are hierarchical with a caste or class 
system; there is often a big difference in wealth between individuals. At work, 
employees respect authority, don't usually take responsibility and have a formal 
relationship with their manager.
Other cultures, like Australia and Denmark, are more liberal and egalitarian. 
Managers give their employees responsibility and often socialize with them.
Individualistic or collectivist?
Individualistic cultures, such as the USA and the Netherlands, think that 
individual rights and freedom of speech are important. Personal goals, choices and 
achievements are encouraged.
In more collectivist cultures, such as Korea and Colombia, this self-centred 
approach is discouraged. The group, such as the family, has a big influence on people’s 
lives and is often seen as more important than business. Companies have a strong work 
group mentality and praise is given to teams rather than individuals.
Masculine or feminine?
In ‘masculine’ societies, like Brazil and Mexico, the male dominates the power 
structure. Competitiveness and assertiveness are encouraged, and the accumulation of 
wealth is important. Many employees ‘live to work' and take short holidays. In 
‘feminine’ societies, such as Sweden and Finland, family, personal relationships, and 
quality of life are more important. Conflicts are resolved through negotiation, and 
people ‘work to live’, enjoying longer holidays and flexible working hours.