Intercultural Management Analysis (IMA)
Cultural comparison summary and objectives. Compare the relevant cultures in th case using Kluckholn and Strodtbeck; and at least one other cultural theorist.
According to Changing Minds (2016), there are six dimensions of culture specified in the Kluckholn and Strodtbeck's framework. Key among these dimensions is the Nature of People Dimension (Minds, 2016). This dimension specifies that people are generally deemed to either be good or bad based on how a particular individual perceives them. This subjective perception also ultimately influences how the individual in question responds to the said people, and also how the individual perceives themselves (Minds, 2016). Consequently, a cultural comparison of the four main countries involved in the Blue Ridge case will be undertaken using the Kluckholn and Strodtbeck's Nature of People Dimension of Culture as explained below:
According to Adams (1994), the nature of the Spanish people is predominantly one that emphasizes strong differences among people in terms of their specific social and economic classes. The basis of business communication among the Spaniards in most instances is a primary subjective perception by the individuals involved in regards to the underlying topic of discussion. Spanish people are also highly critical of the depth and scope of personal relationships which is the basis of the trust on which business relationships are created. Subsequently, it is important to have established business connections in Spain in order for a foreign entity to successfully execute their business operations (Adams, 1994).
Greece
According to Adams (1994), the Greek people natural have a social hierarchy that tends to discriminate people on the basis of the economic class, religion or ethnic orientation. The scope and extent of interpersonal relationship in Greece is also an important component in conducting business transactions successfully according to Adams (1994).In many instances, the Greek people tend to base both their business as well as personal decisions on subjective intuitions and feelings according to Adam (1994), while overall, the Greek people are known to have a strong work ethic that places significant emphasis on the trust between friends as well as extended families (Adams, 1994).
United States
The primary nature of the American people according to Adams (1994) is one that emphasizes individualism rather than collectivism. Consequently, friendships in the United States are few and in most instances are based on the completion of a specific task or need rather than a genuine social desire to interact (Adams, 1994).Due to the individualistic nature of the American people, bottom line results are considered more important than personal relationships, though the American people are known to have a strong work ethic that places specific emphasis on specialized expertise rather than general skills (Adams, 1994).
Finland
According to Adams (1994), the Finnish people are known to have a strong orientation to themselves that creates an individualistic emphasis generally rather than a collective one (Adams, 1994). As a result, the Fins tend to place more importance on the individual skills rather than the overall abilities of a group or a team of people. However, unlike most other countries, the Fins tend to make their decisions in line with objective figures and facts rather than personal perceptions and intuitions. Overall, the Finnish people are highly private and personal opinions tend to be held in high regard (Adams, 1994).
