PowerPoint Presentation

Geert Hofstedes Cultural Dimension TheoryWhat is Geert Hofstedes Cultural Dimension Theory ?A theory that looks at unique aspects of cultures and rates them on a scale for comparison. Geert Hofstede a professor who researched how people from different countries and cultures interact based on different categories of cultural dimensions.

Geert Hofstedes Culture Dimension TheoryFour dimensions that make up Hofstedes Theory which are1. Power Distance2. Individualism3. Uncertainty 4. Masculinity

Power Distance Definition:The measures the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. Key ConceptHigh Power distance A subordinate acknowledges his/her superior based merely upon his/her hierarch of authority.Low Power distance A subordinate who see his/her superior as leader to help and guide one and not to order one around.ExampleWhen a low power distance superior is trying to take the same approach in a high power distance but fails to succeed.

IndividualismDefinitionThe degree to which a society reinforces individual or collective achievement and interpersonal relationships.Key ConceptHigh Individualism score Indicates that individuality and individual rights are dominant. Low Individualism score Points to a society that is more collectivist in nature.ExampleProviding incentives and rewards for individual employee performance will work well in an individualist society, but it would not work as well in a collectivist society where group identity, operating with a group goal and a greater sense of connectedness are vital.

Uncertainty

DefinitionA state wherein outcomes and conditions are unknown or unpredictable.Key ConceptHigh UncertaintyDesire more stability, more structured rules and social norms, and are less comfortable taking risks. Low UncertaintyIndicates that the people in the country are more comfortable with ambiguity, more entrepreneurial, more likely to take risks, and less dependent on structure rules.ExampleThe housing bubble and ensuing financial crisis shows how uncertainty avoidance can impact an entire country.

Masculinity

Definition Focuses on the degree the society reinforces, or does not reinforce, the traditional masculine work role model of male achievement, control, and power.Key ConceptHigh MasculinityRanking indicates the country experiences a high degree of gender differentiation. In these cultures, males dominate a significant portion of the society and power structure, with females being controlled by male domination.Low Masculinity Ranking indicates the country has a low level of differentiation and discrimination between genders. In these cultures, females are treated equally to males in all aspects of the society. ExampleOlder generations believe that man are supposed to be assertive, tough, and focused on material success; while women are supposed to be more modest, tender, and concerned with the quality of life.

Conclusion To be effective in a global sense, one has to understand the dimensions Hofstede identified and weighed on his scale. Knowing these, or at least understanding they exist, will help a managers adapt to the culture he or she is working with or living in. It is a way for you to know not take other people's actions or viewpoints personally and to realize that it is cultural norms that you are dealing with.