Mitev-A2-ICCM-Fall 2023

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Communications

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Feb 20, 2024

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M2 Case Study: Anna Hakansson Q1 . Bahrain is an island country in western Asia, and Sweden is a country north Europe. Bahrain’s location is its most important asset. Being located between Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar as well as separating Asia and Europe, its importance as a trading hub is immense in this region of the world. (Saleh Al-Jazi, M.A.-H., 2020, pg. 341-343) The geographical location greatly influenced the culture in Bahrain. The island country’s proximity to its neighbors is key, as not only do they rely on them for trade, but they have also contributed to Bahrain’s cultural and Islamic religious traditions and laws. On the other hand, Sweden is surrounded by Norway, Finland and Denmark and is vastly different on many cultural aspects. In Sweden, people are more individualistic, pro-equality for all, and in favor a democratic way of living. This way of thought and cultural patterns is the norm for all of the Scandinavian countries. Though Sweden does report numbers on specific religions, most of the country is Christian. (Pettersson, P., 2011, pg. 119 – 120)

Q2 . Anna Hakansson did a excellent job in terms of preparing for her trip to Bahrain. She was proactive in her cross-culture training strategy by attempting to better understand the Bahraini culture by comparing it to her native country. As noted in the assigned readings, the study of culture begins with this process, so Anna took the right steps, however, she could have also implemented other cross-cultural training models such as those by Edward T. Hall, Geert Hofstede, Fons Trompenaars, and Robert House and his GLOBE project associates. ( Steers, R. M., & Osland, J., 2019, pg. 41) A combination of all models could have increased the rate and efficiency that Anna understood the differences and similarities between both cultures. Furthermore, Anna could have done further research besides just speaking with a colleague, performing a google search. She could have read books by experts on various topics concerning business law, culture or contacted experts through other avenues. Communication with experts will help Anna get a better understanding of crucial topics better than the few articles she read. Q3. Part 1 Bahrain Sweden Power distance The power distance is high in Bahrain due to its strong male tribal hierarchy. (Tripp, H., & Tripp, M., 2008, pg. 39) The power distance is low in Sweden due to its egalitarian views on the spread of power, as seen in their democratic government consisting of a Prime Minister and a female and

male cabinet of 22 ministers. (Olesen, E., 2005, pg.33 -34) Uncertainty avoidance Bahrain society has a high uncertainty avoidance as the desire for order and structure is prevalent. The Swedish people have a big tolerance for ambiguity hence they have a low uncertainty avoidance. Individualism – collectivism Collectivism is prevalent in Bahraini society as they cherish family bonds, especially marrying cousins in order to keep wealth in the family. (Tripp, H., & Tripp, M., 2008, pg. 39-40) Individualism Masculinity – femininity The Bahraini society are high on masculinity. It can be seen in their family hierarchy, as well as their direct and competitive approach to business. (Tripp, H., & Tripp, M., 2008, pg. 154-155) Low Time Orientation Moderate Moderate Indulgence and Restraint Moderate High Managerial Implications Power Distance- For managers conducting business in Bahrain, the culture of tribal hierarchies must be respected, and a more authoritative approach should be

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