Question

In the globalized market, contemporary business leaders must manage a variety of cultural expectations and adapt them to the workplace. What cultural differences of values and behaviors are most important for a manager to be aware of? How could a business manager best handle cultural conflict?

Make at least 200 words or more, thank you.

Answer 1

In a globalized world, there is an intermingling of various cultures and social behaviours or norms which have to be taken into considerations while performing ones work. This is because different cultures have different meanings of various actions and behaviours. This might be problematic for managers as the people may misinterpret their behaviours and meanings. Etiquettes are one area where there are differences in various culture which may affect a business relationship. Every manager should be aware of the various etiquettes and customs of different countries. For example, it is a sign of respect and greeting in japan to bow when meeting a person. Similarly, dress codes also have different meanings in various cultures. Gender relations are also different. Forex. In south Asian countries, women typically are traditional and not as open-minded as western women. There is a lot of familial value influence in different countries and this needs to be taken into account. Work behaviours are also different in many cultures. Forex. Germany has a formal work culture where the clear direction is needed whereas the swedes have an informal culture of working.

A manager could best handle a cultural conflict by respecting the other person's culture and understand the meanings behind the person's behaviour. A conflict can be solved by first apologizing for lack of knowledge and taking corrective actions by gaining knowledge about the cultures.