5 Culture in International Business Free Online FlashCards

How can culture influence international business?

It can shape how people interpret messages, build trust, make decisions, negotiate, and understand a manager’s role.

What six dimensions does Hofstede’s framework describe?

Power distance; individualism versus collectivism; uncertainty avoidance; masculinity versus femininity; long-term versus short-term orientation; and indulgence versus restraint.

How does GLOBE distinguish cultural practices from values?

Practices describe what people commonly experience; values describe what they believe should be encouraged.

How should managers use cultural frameworks?

Treat them as hypotheses to check through observation and conversation, not as rules for predicting an individual’s behavior.

What might a brief “yes” mean in cross-cultural communication?

It might signal understanding or politeness rather than agreement, so clarify what the person means.

How can international teams reduce communication ambiguity?

Use clear, plain language, avoid idioms and unexplained acronyms, allow time for interpretation, and confirm important decisions in writing.

What helps communication when working through an interpreter?

Speak in short sections and verify that key terms and commitments have been understood.

Which parts of negotiation may cultural expectations affect?

They may shape how negotiators build rapport, share information, express disagreement, use silence, and reach agreement.

What should broad cross-cultural negotiation preparation include?

Research the organization, industry, business norms, and counterpart’s role, as well as your own interests, alternatives, and priorities.

Why separate positions from interests in negotiation?

A stated demand may not reveal the underlying need. Exploring interests can uncover options that benefit both parties.

How should negotiators confirm commitments?

Record the terms, responsibilities, and next steps in language both sides understand.

How should international managers approach leadership expectations?

Learn what employees and partners expect; leadership expectations vary across societies, so a familiar approach may not transfer unchanged.