Cultural Dimensions Essay

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Cultural Dimensions Cultural Dimensions Saint Leo Cultural Dimensions HR issues and processes vary in different cultures. This dissimilarity is often related to specific heritage and regional traditions. Geert Hofstede is a prominent Dutch researcher who studied organizational culture. Hofstede stated that " national cultural differences are not changing much at all, even though superficial work-related norms and values might be (Ivancevich, J. M., & Konopaske, R. 2013)." Hofstede developed five dimensions of cultural influences. His studies outlined national and regional cultural variations within organizations. The five dimensions are individualism, power distance, uncertainty, masculinity and long-term orientation. HR issues specific to India vary considerably from those of the United States. Power Distance Indian culture is based on a patriarchal hierarchy. As a result, they have adopted a "sir culture (LeFebrve 2011)." As part of this culture, junior employees address senior employees as "sir". This treatment is preferred and recognized as socially appropriate. Additionally, employees are not generally empowered to make decisions. Employees follow a strict set of protocol and do not question the reasons behind decisions. Since there is a strong respect for leadership directives, employees are often hesitant to discuss disputes and situations with management. They trust and believe in their culture and subsequently the hierarchy. As a member of society, promotion of social status. and position are near impossible to achieve. These behaviors differ greatly than the norms within U.S. companies. It is socially acceptable for U.S. employees to call senior managers by their first name. While a reporting hierarchy exists, it's not as defined or as strict as in Indian culture. Employee
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