Hofstede's 6 Dimensions Of National Culture Case Study

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Professor Geert Hofstede led an extensive comprehensive study of values in the workforce and how they are influenced by culture. His research spanned over 70 countries during 1937 and 1973, and many different types of workers in several levels of the workforce Hofstede, G. (2001). Based on his research, he developed a model of six dimensions of national culture. The six dimensions are labeled as: Power distance index, individualism versus collectivism, masculinity versus femininity, uncertainty avoidance index, long term orientation versus short term normative orientation and indulgence versus restraint. Below I will compare the dimensions of cultures scores for various countries. Finally, I will compare two countries using the Hofstede’s six dimensions of culture and discus how cultural differences impact work relationships.
Dimension of Culture Scores
Culture is “the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of one group or category of people from another” (Rodriguez, R. P. & Hechanova, R. M., 2014, as cited in Hofstede, 2001). Business is worldwide and each organization is shaped by culture and the people running the organization (Wharton, 1999). It’s very interesting to see the differences of cultural concepts of leadership skills in various countries, and how the …show more content…

This dimension focuses on the uncontrollable future. The United States scored a low 46. The anxiety that 9/11 created and our global and national economy in turmoil is most certainly why this score is low. Italy, in contrast, scored a high 75. This means their culture is not comfortable in unclear situations. This culture appreciates a high degree of detailed planning. This combination makes for a stressful and difficult life for passionate Italians. They in turn need to carve out relaxing moments in their day to enjoy life, such as coffee breaks and long meals with family and friends, to unwind from business stress (Hofstede, G.

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