In a short essay, list and discuss the different cultural dimensions, according to Geert Hofstede, that can impact both the message of the ethics training program and how the message is presented to its employees around the world.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

a. Individualism vs. Collectivism—Individualism focuses on the achievement of individual
goals, while collectivism focuses on the attainment of group-based goals.
b. High-Context vs. Low-Context Communication—Low-context communication culture
focuses primarily on the actual words spoken or written to interpret the meaning the other person
is trying to communicate. A high-context communication culture interprets not only the words
that have been spoken and/or written but also uses nonverbal cues to aid in the interpretation of
the meaning of the words.
c. High Uncertainty vs. Low Uncertainty Avoidance—High uncertainty avoidance culture is
based on the view that the individuals do not want any ambiguity in their jobs. Low uncertainty
avoidance not only accepts risk and ambiguity but embraces it.
d. Masculinity vs. Feminity—Masculine cultures focus on material goods, status,
accomplishment, and reward for ambition. Feminine cultures focus on caring for human needs
and supporting others within the group.
e. High vs. Low Power Distance—High power distance cultures embrace the hierarchical
relationship that occurs between the manager and the subordinate. Employees in a low power
distance culture would be too shy to speak their minds to their supervisors with the presentation
of new ideas.