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Cultureinthebusinessenvironment.docxRunning head: CULTURE IN THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 1
CULTURE IN THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT 2
Culture in the Business Environment
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Culture in the Business Environment
The world has become a smaller place through advances, including globalization, and many organizations are now involving themselves with the proliferation of cultures. Therefore, just as culture affects individuals’ relationship and thinking, it impacts business behavior. For instance, Jamaica's influences, as noted by Hofstede's dimensions of culture include Masculinity (68), Power Distance (45), Individualism (39), and Uncertainty Avoidance (13) (Hofstede Insights, 2019). Long-term orientation and Indulgence stand at zero (Hofstede Insights, 2019).
Hofstede’s Dimensions of Culture: Jamaica
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Masculinity (68) |
Jamaica is driven by competition, achievement, and success as defined by a winner |
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Power Distance (45) |
Jamaica is independent, breeds an environment of equal rights, has a hierarchy of convenience, and management facilities. The management's power is decentralized, and the team members are relied upon for decisions |
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Individualism (39) |
Jamaica is associated with a collectivistic society. It encompasses a loyal society where everyone is responsible for their actions, and any offense leads to shame |
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Uncertainty Avoidance (13) |
a society dominated with a relaxed attitude where more practice is preferred to principles and morals. |
Communication
Language: English (official), Creole, Patois.
Non-Verbal: Touching of arms and shoulders, Fingering lapel while speaking, Standing closely.
The elements of communication are associated with direct and participative factors. Jamaica uses fixed lines, cellular mobiles, and broadcast media for communication. Jamaicans communicate what they think as the country has low Uncertainty Avoidance. Sometimes communication becomes formal, especially when people at the same level deal with each other. The business etiquette is exhibited in the dimensions of relationship, meeting, negotiation, and management. Jamaicans like building relationships gradually as they do not believe in familiarity at the first greeting. Even while socializing, everyone's status is reserved and they politely address each other (Commisceo Global, 2019). They communicate standing close to each other and may touch the arm or shoulder of their accomplice.
Most businesses work with scheduled appointments in advance for punctuality. They communicate friendly and show a comprehensive presentation during meetings (Commisceo Global, 2019). In terms of negotiations, they hate high-pressure sales tactics. Rules are leniently followed as associations are the most preferred. A business hierarchy is maintained where the senior makes decisions (Commisceo Global, 2019). The people prefer spending time negotiating and reviewing details before agreeing to a contract. The management is left for seniors as they are believed to have more knowledge and experience. However, the managers may have a paternalistic attitude to their followers. Jamaica is a country that observes morals in its operations, even though their communication is weak and draws businesses off. Uncertainty Avoidance is a weakness that when improved, good communication ethics and morals can be observed even in businesses.
References
Commisceo Global. (2019). Jamaica - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. Retrieved from https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/jamaica-guide
