Cross-Cultural Dynamics in the Workplace
Running head: Cultural Dynamics
Cross-Cultural Dynamics in the Workplace
Liberty University
Abstract
In a world of increasing globalization and cross-cultural interaction, there are many barriers, which hinder the communication process. These barriers, present through cultural differences, can be a strength or a weakness to an organization. Leadership and managers alike, can minimize the effects of weaknesses, and capitalize on the strengths, only if they understand the cross-cultural dynamics they will encounter. Without this understanding, an organization will face many undue difficulties and challenges. Recognizing the cause of these is just the first step in being an excellent leader or manager in a globalized market.
Cross-Cultural Dynamics in the Workplace “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are” (Home Somewhat About Me Collecting Dust Perchance to Dream, 2010). These are the words of Anais Nin, an American author of novels and short stories. In this statement, Nin captures the heart of cross-cultural interaction. Until we know and understand the ways in which we communicate, and how they differ from those in other regions of the globe, management will find it difficult to communicate effectively in other cultural environments. As organizations continue the search for greater reach, management must understand this dynamic. Each individual or employee will see things and act accordingly to who they are. Each person brings a life of history as well as cultural influences to the communication table. To truly see things correctly, one must understand the cultural situation they find themselves in, and be perceptive to how a person views the world around them. In many regards, international business is a wide-open opportunity, however, many barriers exist when doing business abroad. For the expatriate, perhaps one of the greatest of these is the dynamics of cross-cultural communication. This paper will look at two common aspects of
Cross-Cultural Dynamics in the Workplace
Liberty University
Abstract
In a world of increasing globalization and cross-cultural interaction, there are many barriers, which hinder the communication process. These barriers, present through cultural differences, can be a strength or a weakness to an organization. Leadership and managers alike, can minimize the effects of weaknesses, and capitalize on the strengths, only if they understand the cross-cultural dynamics they will encounter. Without this understanding, an organization will face many undue difficulties and challenges. Recognizing the cause of these is just the first step in being an excellent leader or manager in a globalized market.
Cross-Cultural Dynamics in the Workplace “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are” (Home Somewhat About Me Collecting Dust Perchance to Dream, 2010). These are the words of Anais Nin, an American author of novels and short stories. In this statement, Nin captures the heart of cross-cultural interaction. Until we know and understand the ways in which we communicate, and how they differ from those in other regions of the globe, management will find it difficult to communicate effectively in other cultural environments. As organizations continue the search for greater reach, management must understand this dynamic. Each individual or employee will see things and act accordingly to who they are. Each person brings a life of history as well as cultural influences to the communication table. To truly see things correctly, one must understand the cultural situation they find themselves in, and be perceptive to how a person views the world around them. In many regards, international business is a wide-open opportunity, however, many barriers exist when doing business abroad. For the expatriate, perhaps one of the greatest of these is the dynamics of cross-cultural communication. This paper will look at two common aspects of
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