In the late 1960`s and early 1970`s Geert Hofstede who was a Dutch sociologist used to work for IBM as a personnel researcher for their European Headquarters. He worked alongside with the team of international researchers to develop a survey on employee attitude and found out that their were strong national patterns in the answers to the survey which was administered in 66 countries. Hofstede re-analyzed and studied those patterns again and came to a conclusion that their were five dimensions of national culture:
1. Power Distance Index (PDI)
It can be defined as the unequal distribution of a power in an organization structure. However the scope of this is not limited and it can be seen in an education institute, in a family, in a country etc. Further it can also be described as a culture in which employees think that their superiors have more power than they have and that their superiors decesions are right as they are on a higher position.
2. Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI)
It can be defined as an extent to which the members of a culture feel threatened by uncertain or unknown situations. It basically tells us that how a culture programs its members to feel comfortable or uncomfortable in different situations. It ultimately refers to man`s search for truth.
3. Individualism (IDV)
In Individualistic culture, people want to do their job freely, people like variety and they respect individual initiative. They are motivated towards their work in order to advance their own self interest. On the other hand the word collectivism has no political meaning as it refers to a group and not to a state.
4. Masculinity (MAS)
Masculinity versus its opposite femininity means the distribution of work or roles amongst the genders which is still a fundamental issue for the society whose solutions are found.
The IBM study revealed that the values of men are differ more in the society than the values of women. Workers of such cultures do not mind competing with others and they just want to earn high salary. Where as in the culture opposite to this i.e. less masculine (or less feminine) people place a high value towards good environment, good relationships, service and cooperation.
5. Long Term Orientation (LTO)
LTO versus short term orientation was found by using a questionnaire designed by Chinese scholars and was studied among students in 23 countries. It describes a longer term, higher level view of life.
|
Characteristics |
Tips |
|
|
High LTO |
* Family is the basis of society. * Parents and men have more authority than young people and women. * Strong work ethic. * High value placed on education and training. |
* Show respect for traditions. * Do not display extravagance or act frivolously. * Reward perseverance, loyalty, and commitment. * Avoid doing anything that would cause another to "lose face". |
|
Low LTO |
* Promotion of equality. * High creativity, individualism. * Treat others as you would like to be treated. * Self-actualization is sought. |
* Expect to live by the same standards and rules you create. * Be respectful of others. * Do not hesitate to introduce necessary changes. |