Question

USA's different cultural and institutional profiles compared to the United Kingdom.

One North American employee is coming to work in your organisation in United Kingdom, you are the manager of your organisation in the United Kingdom.

A. Put together a report advising about cultural differences that the North American may have coming to work in the United Kingdom, and the differences in the institutional business environment.

B. What challenges may arise for the manager in the United Kingdom, dealing with a North American?

Answer 1

A) There are quite a several differences between the two.
a) Business attire - While Americans usually prefer casual wear at offices. Dress-down Fridays are most common throughout the place, while in the UK they prefer classic dress codes for men and women with colors like black, dark blue. To distinguish themselves managers in the UK may even adore silk ties, Italian shoes, etc, which may not be appealing in American. Thus American must get ready in classic wear while working in the UK

b) Humor - UK people prefer wits or intellectual humor rather than loud jokes. The sarcasm may be very subtle and hence Americans may have to take time to read between the words.

c) While Britons like to have work-life balance and their interests alive apart from the work, there is less resemblance to it in the US. Thus, Americans would have a great time pursuing his interest and getting time-off. American overemphasis on work may feel strange to people of UK

d) While Britons have more sense of hierarchy as compared to Americans. For Americans, the use of discretion is paid more emphasis to bring creativity. But in UK clear directions and approval is a norm. Thus, American may have a hard time here, asking for approvals for leave or time off

e) Self-promotion at the workplace is uncommon in the UK and may be seen in a bad light, if done. While Americans are happy talking about themselves. Thus, American must know that the culture that he/she is going to may not like self-promotion much.

f) Politeness and courtesy are more common in the UK while Americans prefer friendly conversation and small talks. Thus, one more difference.

B) The culture of the US and the UK is different. While the US is friendly, talk loud may be brash at times and like lead individualistic life. The UK people are more conserved, follow protocols, would consider the consequences of their actions or words before speaking.

Thus, the challenge for managers would be to make Americans get accustomed to the norms of the UK. The work attire, or the conversation at the workplace. It would take time as there is a wide difference but with consideration and leniency on both sides, it can be achieved.