Question

Compare how the United States differs from another country of your choice on Hofstede's dimensions of culture. Explain how your knowledge of these differences would influence you as a global manager if you were doing business internationally

Answer 1

United States differs from another country Italy on Hofstede's dimensions of culture which are Power Distance, Individualism, Masculinity, Uncertainty Avoidance, Long term Orientation, Indulgence.

United Distance has a culture of low power distance and is high on individualism. The country follows hierarchy as per the suitability of individuals and their is an open culture for cooperation and communication between managers and employees.The Americans are mobile and have flexible attitude and culture for interaction and are independent in approach.Culture of Italy also has moderate score on power distance thus making the decentralised power structures and decision making. The Individualism score is high which reflects less preference on supervision and control. The Masculinity factor is high in both countries with focus on drive for achievement, ambition and competition. The culture of both countries is success oriented and is reflected through their materialistic possessions. The Uncertainty avoidance in US culture is lower compared to Italy and US culture relies more on innovation, openness and acceptance of new ideas. The culture of Italy is different in terms of uncertainty avoidance as the country scores high on this factors and complies with the standard procedures and processes to avoid any unpredictable situations. On the dimension of Long term orientation , the United States culture is low and adheres its existing culture and beliefs while the Italy score is high indicating the country has more pragmatic approach and adaptable to changes in traditions and culture. The Indulgence score for United States is higher compared to Italy indicating that the United States culture is more indulgent compared to the restrained culture of Italy which is low on indulgence and leisure factors.

The knowledge of these differences would influence the global business manager doing business internationally by seeking opportunities to introduce products and services in markets which are high on long term orientation and are adaptable to changes. The low indulgence factor of Italy indicates that the products and services which help in the growth of the society and achieving progress are valued. The country with high masculine factors values success and achievement and prefer formal cultures and meticulous planning. The interests and emotions are expressed freely and the individualism culture promotes personal beliefs and thinking thus creating scope of services targeted around individual interests and preferences. Equality and openness in management style is appreciated. The global brands and business have good scope when implemented with planning and long term goals and the customer preferences for value and performance.