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.
Expert Answer
The theory of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions helps to construct framework for cross cultural communication. It was devised by Hofstede wherein the dimensions help to portray the effect of culture in society.
Power distance is related to the extent to which power is distributed among the powerful organizations and members of the society. Germany is considered as low power distant country with score of 35. The power distance is 40 in USA.
Individualsm is 91 score with high degree of independence Int he society. Germany has 67 score on independence as an individualistic country.
The masculinity score is higher with 66 as compares to USA which is 62. The score of masculinity is higher in Germany which reveals how the society is driven by success competitor and achievement.
Uncertainty avoidance is 46 in USA as compared to 65 in Germany. This is related to the extent to which unknown situations pose a threat to the members of the culture and how beliefs are created for avoiding these.
The long term orientation score is 83 in Germany as opposed to USA which is 26. This is related to the way certain links are maintained with its past while the challenges of present and future are dealt with effectively. The high score of Germany reveals that it is a pragmatic country.
Indulgence score is 68 in USA as opposed to Germany which is 40. This is related to the extent to which the impulses and desires are controlled by people. German culture is restrained in nature and tends to be pessimistic as compared to USA.
The knowledge of the differences will help the position as a global manager if the business was done internationally. The strategy will help to communicate effectively and add competitive advantage for becoming a successful global player in the market. The research is also important for strategy and building communication for fulfillment of goals and objectives. This will help to modify the policies and approach management by taking into account the way the culture operates.