Geet Hofstead Model

8/3/2019 Geet Hofstead Model

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Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions

G. Surya Prakash Rao

Visiting Professor IIPM


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" Culture is more often a source of conflict than of

synergy. Cultural differences are a nuisance at best

and often a disaster.

Prof. Geert Hofstede, Emeritus Professor,

Maastricht University.


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Geert Hofstede's research gives us insightsinto other cultures so that we can be more

effective when interacting with people in other

countries.If understood and applied properly, this

information should reduce your level of

frustration, anxiety, and concern.But most important, Geert Hofstede will give

you the 'edge of understanding' which

translates to more successful results


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An example?

One example of cultural differences in business is between

the Middle Eastern countries and the Western countries,

especially the United States.

When negotiating in Western countries, the objective is to

work toward a target of mutual understanding and agreement

and 'shake-hands' when that agreement is reached - a cultural

signal of the end of negotiations and the start of 'working

together'.


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Example (cont)

In Middle Eastern countries much negotiation takes placeleading into the 'agreement', signified by shaking hands.

However, the deal is not complete in the Middle Eastern

culture. In fact, it is a cultural sign that 'serious' negotiations

are just beginning.

Imagine the problems this creates when each party in a

negotiation is operating under diametrically opposed 'rules

and conventions.'


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Power Distance Index (PDI)

focuses on the degree of equality, or inequality,focuses on the degree of equality, or inequality,between people in the country's societybetween people in the country's society

A High Power Distance ranking indicates that

inequalities of power and wealth have been allowedto grow within the society. These societies are morelikely to follow a caste system that does not allowsignificant upward mobility of its citizens.

A LowPower Distance ranking indicates the societyde-emphasizes the differences between citizen'spower and wealth. In these societies equality and

opportunity for everyone is stressed.


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Individualism (IDV)

focuses on the degree the society reinforcesfocuses on the degree the society reinforcesindividual or collective achievement andindividual or collective achievement and

interpersonal relationships.interpersonal relationships.

A High Individualism ranking indicates thatindividuality and individual rights are paramountwithin the society. Individuals in these societies maytend to form a larger number of looser relationships.

A Low Individualism ranking typifies societies of amore collectivist nature with close ties betweenindividuals. These cultures reinforce extended

families and collectives where everyone takesresponsibility for fellow members of their group.


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Masculinity (MAS)

focuses on the degree the society reinforces, orfocuses on the degree the society reinforces, ordoes not reinforce, the traditional masculine workdoes not reinforce, the traditional masculine work

role model of male achievement, control, androle model of male achievement, control, and

power.power.

A High Masculinity ranking indicates the countryexperiences a high degree of gender differentiation.

In these cultures, males dominate a significant

portion of the society and power structure, with

females being controlled by male domination.

A LowMasculinity ranking indicates the country

has a low level of differentiation and discrimination

between genders. In these cultures, females are

treated equally to males in all aspects of the society


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Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI)

focuses on the level of tolerance for uncertainty andfocuses on the level of tolerance for uncertainty and

ambiguity within the societyambiguity within the society -- i.e. unstructured situations.i.e. unstructured situations.

A High Uncertainty Avoidance ranking indicates the countryhas a low tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity. This

creates a rule-oriented society that institutes laws, rules,

regulations, and controls in order to reduce the amount of

uncertainty.

A LowUncertainty Avoidance ranking indicates the country

has less concern about ambiguity and uncertainty and has

more tolerance for a variety of opinions. This is reflected in a

society that is less rule-oriented, more readily accepts change,

and takes more and greater risks


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Long-Term Orientation (LTO)

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n the degree the so

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tembrace, longembrace, long--term devotion to traditional, forwardterm devotion to traditional, forward

thinking values.thinking values.

High LongHigh Long--Term OrientationTerm Orientation ranking indicates the country

prescribes to the values of long-term commitments and

respect for tradition. This is thought to support a strong workethic where long-term rewards are expected as a result of

today's hard work. However, business may take longer to

develop in this society, particularly for an "outsider".

A Low Long-Term Orientation ranking indicates the country

does not reinforce the concept of long-term, traditional

orientation. In this culture, change can occur more rapidly as

long-term traditions and commitments do not become

impediments to change.


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Assignment

Match 5 countries for each of the

dimensions

...thank you

Documents

Geet Hofstead Model