Cultural Sensitivity
Cultural Sensitivity Task 4
BY
Renee Johnson
Country
I have chosen South Korea because business growth and opportunities have opened up in recent years.
Cultural Challenges:
Managers are encouraged to learn the language; however, learning the language itself is only half the battle. Interpreting what the client is saying between the lines or understanding local terms and customs are very important and not to be overlooked. It is recommended that the manager uses an interpreter so that there are not miscommunications and therefore missed opportunities. (Ball, Geringer, Minor, McNett, 2009)
A hand shake is of major importance. When first greeting, it is custom to bow first then shake hands, the younger executive bowing first. (Rigden, 2012) When passing a business card or to shake hands it is important to use either the right hand only or both hands to shake and/or present business cards. (BusinessCulture.com, 2012)
Korean’s body language and mood during a meeting is slight but important to interpret. A positive and upbeat character means that things are going good and the client is pleased as opposed to agitated and quiet or fidgety might mean that the meeting is not going in your favor.
In order to avoid being discourteous Koreans avoid giving an outright answer of yes or no. Preferring to use statements such as “we will see” or “that might be difficult” if the answer is likely to be no and phrases such as “I have heard you” or “I recognize your point” (Business Culture in South Korea, 2012). This can make communications difficult. Managers are encouraged to have many meeting with Korean clients in order to build trust and friendship. This will help managers to better interpret the clients intentions remembering to always remain calm and patient. (Business Culture in South Korea, 2012).
The importance of family and friendship that is an integral part of Asian society should be fostered by managers, remembering family members’ names
BY
Renee Johnson
Country
I have chosen South Korea because business growth and opportunities have opened up in recent years.
Cultural Challenges:
Managers are encouraged to learn the language; however, learning the language itself is only half the battle. Interpreting what the client is saying between the lines or understanding local terms and customs are very important and not to be overlooked. It is recommended that the manager uses an interpreter so that there are not miscommunications and therefore missed opportunities. (Ball, Geringer, Minor, McNett, 2009)
A hand shake is of major importance. When first greeting, it is custom to bow first then shake hands, the younger executive bowing first. (Rigden, 2012) When passing a business card or to shake hands it is important to use either the right hand only or both hands to shake and/or present business cards. (BusinessCulture.com, 2012)
Korean’s body language and mood during a meeting is slight but important to interpret. A positive and upbeat character means that things are going good and the client is pleased as opposed to agitated and quiet or fidgety might mean that the meeting is not going in your favor.
In order to avoid being discourteous Koreans avoid giving an outright answer of yes or no. Preferring to use statements such as “we will see” or “that might be difficult” if the answer is likely to be no and phrases such as “I have heard you” or “I recognize your point” (Business Culture in South Korea, 2012). This can make communications difficult. Managers are encouraged to have many meeting with Korean clients in order to build trust and friendship. This will help managers to better interpret the clients intentions remembering to always remain calm and patient. (Business Culture in South Korea, 2012).
The importance of family and friendship that is an integral part of Asian society should be fostered by managers, remembering family members’ names
References: 4. Rigden, J. (2012) “Business Culture & Etiquette in Korea”. Retrieved from: http://www.ehow.com/about_6313145_business-culture-etiquette-korea.html 5. King, T 8. www.seekglasses.com (2005) “Korean textile labeling requirements Amendment.” Retrieved from: http://www.seekglasses.com/news_2011-2-3/67899.html 9. Ergin, G 10. englishnews@chosun.com[->1], (2011) The Chosunilbo. “Nepotism Still Rife in Korean Employment”, Retrieved from: http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2011/11/22/2011112200372.html [->0] - mailto:englishnews@chosun.com