International Business

Introduction4

Discussion5

Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions5

Power Distance (PDI)6

Individualism (IDV)6

Masculinity (MAS)6

Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI)7

Long term Orientation (LTO)7

Cross-Culture Dimensions of Brazil7

Power Distance (PDI)8

Individualism (ID)8

Masculinity/Femininity (MAS)9

Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI)9

Long term Orientation (LTO)9

Cross-Culture Dimensions of United Kingdom10

Power Distance (PDI)11

Individualism (ID)11

Masculinity/Femininity (MAS)11

Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI)12

Long term Orientation (LTO)12

Comparison and Limitations of Cultures of Brazil and United Kingdom12

Conclusion14

References16

Abstract

The paper aims at undertaking the vital domain of cross-culture dimensions in the context of international business with respect to Brazil and United Kingdom. Moreover, the research paper aims at comparing and contrasting the different cross-cultural dimensions between Brazil and United Kingdom, like individualism vs. collectivist, feminism vs. masculinity, power distance, time orientation and low vs. High uncertainty avoidance. Moreover, the limitation of dimensions in each of the country is also discussed.

International Business

Introduction

Conducting business on a global basis require a thorough understanding of different cultures. What works in one country might not work well in another or the way people behave and interact in one country can substantially differ in another due to prevalence of cross cultural dimensions. Culture provides answers on how people behave differently around the globe. A culture gap is any systematic distinction between two cultures which hinders mutual understanding or relations in international business. These differences include the values, behavior, education and customs of the respective cultures.

Source: http://thearticulateceo.typepad.com/.a/6a0128763842f6970c014e8ba4d3c9970d-pi

The purpose of the research is to recognize the cultural differences between Brazil and United Kingdom using the model introduced by Greet Hofstede. Cultures of countries are positioned and differentiated on the basis of dimensions of power distance, uncertainty avoidance, individualism/collectivism, and masculinity/femininity and long versus short term orientation.

Discussion

Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions

In the globalization framework of progression and the expansion of economical interdependence among countries, the analysis of cross-cultural dimensions is becoming more and more important. Distinguishing the significance of cultural difference is helping managers to recognize their international associates and competitors and resultantly help in improving their managerial skills. In order to comprehend the cultural differences with respect to international business, Dr. Greet Hofstede came up with a model of cross-cultural dimensions that has become an internationally recognized standard. Hofstede collected cultural data with access from people who were working for the same organization in 40 countries of the world and analyzed his findings. He came up with five cross-cultural dimensions that served to differentiate one culture from another (Mind Tools, 2013).

The cross-dimensions that were identified by Hofstede in his model include power distance (PDI), individualism (IDV), masculinity (MAS), uncertainty avoidance index (UAI) & long term orientation (LTO).

Hofstede's five cultural dimensions Source: http://cnx.org/content/m35593/latest/

Power Distance (PDI)

The dimension of power distance defines the amount to which a few influential affiliates of organizations accepts and except the unequal distribution of power. High power distance indicates the acceptance of unequal distribution of power by society; whereas, a low power distance portrays that distribution of power is well shared and detached (Mind Tools, 2013).

Individualism (IDV)

The dimension of individualism refers the amount to which individuals are incorporated into groups. It involves the power of the connections people have with others inside the ...