Cultural and Ethnic Studies
Analyze each case, based upon what you have learned about cultural norms, taboos, non-verbal communication,, language, high-context, vs. low-context cultures, and Hofstede’s 5 Cultural Dimensions.
Scenario 1:
Wendy Robinson, a vice president for marketing for a California cosmetic company, has been sent by her company to France to select a new sales manager for the Paris area. After sitting through a sales presentation (which includes numerous historical and literary references) given by one of the leading candidates, Wendy wondered why this person had been so highly recommended. While trying to concentrate on the candidate’s presentation, Wendy questioned whether the candidate was compensating for his lack of technical knowledge by including excessive literary and historical references.
Scenario 2:
While living and working in Milan, Eric Woodward decided to spend a Saturday at the Brera Art Museum. Because he was not exactly certain where the museum was located, he asked a man on the street for directions. While the Italian was explaining how to get to the museum, Eric had an uncontrollable itch on his left earlobe. He tried to satisfy the itch by tugging on his earlobe. The Italian man immediately became upset and started yelling at Eric.
Write your thoughts in APA format(Cover page, running header, MS Word and proper APA citations ) Word document (double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt font). Allow a minimum of 3 page of typed text per case analysis( not including cover and reference sheets). Use outside references to justify your analysis. Cite your sources in APA documentation.
after the sources – Dr. Geert Hofstede is the distinguished and internationally acclaimed expert in the study of culture amongst nations. His pioneering work on the four (later five) dimensions of culture is the definitive guideline major corporations around the globe use in conducting international business.
Watch the videos below where Dr. Hofstede explains his theories on culture, and discusses “seven deadly sins” in a multicultural world.
