Hofstede’s Value Dimensions of Culture
James Sweeney
Bus 600 Management Communication with Technology Tools
Professor Dr. Melanye V Smith
May 04, 2015
Abstract
A review of Hofstede’s five cultural dimensions, this model looks at the effect of cultures, value of its members, and how they relate to behavior within that culture. The model has been successfully used for effective intercultural, interpersonal communications around the world. There are five values that Hofstede’s has identified: Power Distance; Individualism or Collectivism; Masculinity and Femininity; Uncertainty Avoidance and Short or Long Term Orientation. Each value aids in developing a model to understand an approach and the preparation that should be taken to be effective and successful in its dealings with that particular culture.
Hofstede Five Values
I have selected two countries using Hofstede cultural dimensions model. China who has the second largest economy in the world and Russia who is currently experiencing an economic down turn, but still has a large economy and plays is big part in the world economy.
Power Distance:
When comparing these two large countries using the Hofstede model there are three similarities; first both countries have very high scores when it comes to Power Distance, Russia is 93 and China at 80. Power Distance described in Hofstede model can help identify who is in charge. A high power distance cultures understands that power or authority is distributed unequally. This would mean if you are communicating or negotiating a new business you would want to make sure the person you are dealing with, has the authority to negotiate business and close on any deals made. These settings become formal, and status symbols become very important. Decisions are made by the few individuals that are in charge. On the other hand in a low power distance cultural, the authority is cooperative and the chain of command is readily accessible. In business settings managers utilize the individual employees or teams for their expertise. Usually in these settings the business decisions are made by a team or group environment. Canada is considered a low power distance culture with a score of 39.
Short or Long Term Orientation:
Short or Long term orientation is the second Hofstede value, and Russia and China have similar scores; Russia scored 81 and China 87. In a long term orientation culture that score high are usually more inclined to take a practical approach. There is usually more problem solving and looking at various options to improve the culture in modern education, recognition and motivation which will encourage thriftiness and prepare for long term results.
Cultures with short term orientation have low scores. These cultures are inclined to follow old traditions, and norms. Usually suspicious of change and look more at the present then the long term future values. Argentina is considered a short term orientation with a score of 20.
Individualism or Collectivism
The third value that Russia and China have similar scores is Individualism. Russia scored a 39, where China had a score of 20. These are both considered to be low scores. This reflects a cultural value of unity and loyalty. The culture looks at itself as a large family togetherness and strong ties of being interrelated.
Cultures that score high like the United States who scored 91, have established a distinctive culture where personal achievement and rights of the individual are valued. In this culture you are expected to take care of yourselves and choose your own relationships within that culture. This is (I) and (Me) type of conception.
Value of Masculinity- Femininity
In comparing the Value of Masculinity-Femininity in Hofstede model, Russia scored a 36, where China scored a 66. Russia is considered to value a more feminine culture. This means that relationships and the quality of life is more important to the nation. Women and Men have
