Discuss The 11 Common Areas Of Intercultural Misunderstanding

It is initially hard to distinguish which of these tangible or intangible factors are more important. Based on the cultural dimensions and values identified further in the report, it is clear that each has its own importance and merit. Understanding the cultural norms and expectations at play in the case study are critical to resolving the conflict at hand. Whilst Kelly believed she had adequate prior knowledge of the Japanese culture, it is clear that she is not as well versed as she thinks.

Another challenge this team is facing is an unclear leadership and direction which is causing interruptions in the decision making process. The misalignment between Jack’s and Ellen’s instructions causes inconsistencies and insecurities in the team. The Korean consultants are not sure which orders to follow and due to the cultural familiarity with Jack and the high power distance in the Korean work culture, they are ignoring Ellen’s instructions. The decision making process is further slowed down by major cultural difference in regards how and how quickly project related decisions are made. The American culture is known for quick decision-making whereas the Korean culture has a very high uncertainty-avoidance. This risk avoidant culture is driving Jack’s decision to conduct further market research even if that is outside of the scope of the companies deliverables. Since Korea is a collectivist society in which group decisions are valued, his unilateral decision in regards to the market research suggests that he does not view Ellen as part of the group.

In today’s modern, fast-paced, technology driven world it is all too easy to misinterpret and misunderstand situations, both personal and professional, that could easily be solved by taking a look into the cultural concepts and norms of a group or society. In cultures with a long history of social customs, it would be beneficial for those involved to examine the special features and norms that make up this culture in an effort to better the communication and understanding of personal and professional relationships. This area can be especially favorable in working with those of the Japanese decent as this culture is deeply intricate with many traditions and standards that have been passed on from generation to generation. Some of theses cultural

Rebecca Dipper stared hard into the mirror in the workplace restrooms. She had always embraced a methodical, planned approach to her job and the top brass at Feldman Insurance had all agreed her chance to take on an executive position was long overdue. Presently, as she psyched herself out before the final round of interviews, she found herself agreeing with her superiors on this point.

As one may know, cultural aspects differ between a myriad of countries. In particular, Japan is a traditional yet historical society that is worlds apart from the familiar United States. Specifically, Geert Hofstede and Edward T. Hall conducted a study based on cultural influences in relation to the workplace as well as characteristics of a high context society. However, it is vital to recognize Japan’s business norms and customs, culture, and etiquette before one’s journey begins.

Cross Cultural management explains the behaviour of people in organizations worldwide, helping managers and firms to understand how to act in business matters dealing with the different cultures. (Adler, 2008)

The American and Japanese cultures have been compared in a general context for their contrasting values. In addition, the two cultures have been described as

In this case “Kelly’s Assignment in Japan”, we have an example of expatriation poorly managed and unprepared. Different cultures, customs seem very important between Japanese and Westerners. Added to this barrier, we also not that there

Lucas and Flynn are operating on cultural biases, and Batey needs to look past this. Understanding the basics of the Japanese culture will help alleviate the nervousness they all feel about the Japanese managers coming to set up the merger (Martinko & Douglas, p. 3). They need to learn to set their judgments aside and open themselves up to new experiences (O’Rourke, p. 289). When Batey researches the Japanese culture he might find that they would actually like to see a Padres game and go to the zoo. These are both popular activities in Japan as well.

…the aforementioned prejudice against those with a non-native accent is a problem not just for recruiters and managers but large swathes of the English-studying Japanese public, too. Most paying Japanese customers of these larger chains have a specific idea of the kind of teacher they want: typically, young, attractive individuals with as neutral an accent as possible. In the past, I’ve even been rejected from such jobs because my Scottish accent ‘didn’t sound native enough.’ (Carrigan)

Our interviewee is responsible for internship and graduate recruitment. Therefore, the main source of the recruitment is all students in Hong Kong such as students for internship or the university fresh graduates for full-time jobs.

After some investigation has been done, the planning of activities for the visiting Japanese organizational management team should begin. Starting with a dinner; taking them to a Japanese inspired restaurant absorbed in their culture would

This company is not the first company she worked in the U.S. However; it is rare environment not to work with any Japanese staffs. She 's been working for the company in total six years, two years in the department. First four years in the previous department, she didn’t consider her behavior as problematic, because she reported to a Japanese manager with many other Japanese staffs. Moreover, many non-Japanese staffs seemed to have acculturated to Japanese way there.

When dealing with intercultural business a person should be well aware of the characteristics of the culture he is to be in contact with. He should be well prepared to face attitudes not common in his home country.

very foundations of Japan’s management system are based on lifetime employment, promotion through seniority, and single-company