QSO 321 Module Two Assignment Template
Criteria
Canada
Saudi Arabia
Japan
Authority Figures
• Authority figures
are treated just
like their
subordinates
showing that there
is low power
distance in
Canada.
• Developing
personal contact
in the professional
setting is not
considered to be
important.
• Subordinates
show high respect
to authority
figures. They are
greeted first and
subordinates stand
up when they
enter.
• Maintaining
prolonged eye
contact and
physical touch
may be considered
offensive.
• Authority figures
are considered
superior to their
subordinates. To
show respect to
superiors, the
Japanese bow
down and do not
shake hands.
• Shaking hands
may be considered
to be offensive.
Levels of Formality
• All members are
treated equally.
• Equality and
diversity elements
are given priority.
• Subordinates can
greet their
superiors with a
handshake.
• Formal dress code
is maintained in
the business
setting.
• The level of
formality is high.
Subordinates must
bow to their
supervisors and
must use
professional and
respectful
language.
• There exists a high
level of formality.
• Formal business
attire must be
worn by
professionals,
Social Norms
• Respectable and
diplomatic
behavior is
expected in the
work context.
• During lunch or
dinner, casual
conversations can
be held.
• Distance should
be maintained
while having
formal talks.
• Relationships are
given high priority
in the business
context.
• Informal language
with superiors
must be avoided
• Trust and
reliability act as
cornerstones in
the Japanese
business setting.
• Impolite and loud
language must be
avoided.
Time and Scheduling
• Punctuality is
• Decisions are
• It is necessary to
Criteria
Canada
Saudi Arabia
Japan
highly valued in
the business
environment in
Canada.
• So it is necessary
to be before time
(Saudi Arabia
guide.
Commisceo
Global Consulting
Ltd, 2021).
made at a slow
pace but agreed
upon deadlines
must be adhered
to.
• The local business
people may make
foreigners wait for
some time.
stick to the
predetermined
time.
• Deadlines must be
given high
priority. f
Business Practices
• Privacy is
separated from the
professional lives
of individuals.
• Formality is
maintained while
having business
conversations and
discussions.
• Using facts and
figures while
having business
meetings is
necessary.
• Trust building is
considered
important in
business setting.
• Foreigners must
avoid wearing
local clothes.
• High emphasis is
laid on personal
association while
conducting
business. f
• Politeness is
considered crucial
in the business
context.
• Maintaining
physical distance
during initial
business
interactions is
necessary.
References
Saudi Arabia guide. Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2021). Retrieved January 14, 2022, from
https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/saudi-arabia-guide
