CROSS-CULTURAL MANAGEMENT

Cross-Cultural Management

Cross-Cultural Management

Introduction

Globalization is a phenomenon that is in vogue nowadays. In this rapidly changing world, to be successful, it is imperative for an organization to adopt the phenomenon of globalization. On one hand, globalization cultivates scores of benefits for the organization. On the other hand, it also generates various dilemmas for management. This phenomenon of globalization presents challenges of understanding and managing different facets of cross-culture. According to Stephen Roberts,” Culture is the framework in which we communicate”.

This suggests that various factors give rise to the various problems of cross-cultural. These factors include language, environment, technology, social organization, the perception of authority and nonverbal communications (Thomas and Cerdin, 2008, 123). Having the ability to assess these variables is vital in ensuring for managers to convey messages and conduct business across a wide range of cultures

Cross-cultural management focuses on improving and understanding the inter-organizational interactions of the individuals belonging to different cultures. It tends to expand the conventional view of management by considering the reality of multicultural and international commerce. Cross-cultural management in the business environment globally depicts international commerce as the norm rather than the exception. The importance of cross-cultural management is evident in a world where all kinds of cooperation between companies in many countries is on an increase. Whether, these are mergers, takeovers, partnerships or strategic alliances, they all need to be analyzes in cultural terms, not just determine where benefit can be gained but also where difficulties may be encountered when companies are working together. Culture has a number of different definitions, and each country has its own culture and values. The culture of a country can have a huge influence on the working and the culture of an organization (Lewis, 2007, 19). This paper discusses the concept of cross-cultural management culture. It further discusses the cross-cultural management in Thailand.

Part 1: Culture of Thailand

Thailand is one of the few countries in the world in modern times that had no effect on their traditions and culture. Culture of Thailand has traditionally been passed from one generation to another. The source of Thai culture and customs are deeply rooted in Buddhism, crafts, martial arts and beautiful clothes. Along with this is the inspirational music with wonderful and exotic Thai dances. These dances are generally done by Thai ladies wearing beautiful and elegant exotic and beautiful local Thai costumes sewn. The greeting in Thailand is known as the best aspect of Thai culture. Wai is when a person joins the two hands to his head either at or chest as you bend your head slightly to the hands. This is the way of greeting and is especially done when a younger person greets an older person. It is a sign of respect (Fowler, 2002, 441).

Thai culture can be a unique experience as modern times and traditions have blended to create an atmosphere that can not be replicated. Bangkok offers a package of Thai culture that shows through museums, Buddhist temples and beautiful, ancient architecture of ...