Cultural Dimensions by Yasmin Abubakar

Power Distance

abubakary — 2024-02-15 16:33:42 UTC

Definition: The distance between an employer and an employee in a workplace.

Real-world example: in the UK, people are able to have direct contact with their bosses and in Nigeria, there is more of a hierarchical system in the workplace.

Someone from the UK is more likely to be an extrovert and be outspoken, while someone from Nigeria is more likely to be an introvert and not so outspoken.

Individualism Vs Collectivism

abubakary — 2024-02-15 16:34:03 UTC

Definition: Individualism is a cultural orientation that prioritises individual rights, autonomy, and self-reliance. While collectivism is a cultural orientation that is more open to valuing family and other people in society.

Real-world example: In the United States, people focus more on their personal goals, wanting to make more money and building their careers, while in Nigeria, people focus on helping one another, uplifting each other and growing together as a society.

A person affected by individualism might more likely be introverted, tend to isolate themselves a lot and be competitive in their office. A person affected by collectivism will be more extroverted, will be able to work in a group setting and will also depend on their peers for validation.

Masculinity Vs Femininity

abubakary — 2024-02-15 16:34:22 UTC

Definition: Masculine cultures may prioritise competition and individual achievement in the office while also increasing stress and conflict. Feminine cultures, on the other hand, may emphasise collaboration and employee well-being, fostering a positive work environment but potentially leading to slower decision-making.

Real-world example: In Japan, they work with a more traditional approach to things, where men are expected to be assertive and competitive in the workplace. In Sweden, they are committed to gender equality, which allows for a safe and secure work environment for women to also have a chance to have a good work life balance, therefore creating time for their families.

A person will tend to be more competitive if they come from a masculine like society and if they come from a feminine society they are more likely to be more cooperative and value their peace.

Uncertainty Avoidance

abubakary — 2024-02-15 16:34:40 UTC

Definition: Uncertainty avoidance is a cultural dimension reflecting a society's comfort level with change.

Real-world examples: Russia has more centralised authority and a strong government system that controls the citizens, while the UK has more of a parliamentary system where the people in society have more of a voice.

It can affect their behaviours in the sense that a person from Russia will be more obedient and abide by rules, while someone from the UK will be more free-spirited and feel the need to do things their way.

Long term Vs Short term Orientation

abubakary — 2024-02-15 16:35:12 UTC

Definition: Long-term orientation and short-term orientation are cultural dimensions identified by Geert Hofstede, which reflect the degree to which a society values long-term planning, perseverance, and traditions versus short-term goals, immediate gratification, and adaptability.

Real world example: China has a long term orientation, emphasising virtues such as perseverance, thrift, and persistence in achieving long-term goals.

Example for short-term: The United States tends to have a shorter-term orientation, with a focus on immediate results, innovation and adaptability.

A country like America is more likely to be quick when it comes to innovation and general development than China.