Understanding Culture and Communication

Globalization has changed the nature of work. To communicate effectively in a global marketplace, you must understand the basic dimensions of culture: individualism, formality, communication style, and time orientation. The following examples describe a dimension of culture. Identify which dimension is described in each case.

In North America, people value independence and personal responsibility.

Communication style

Time orientation

Power distance

Individualism

North Americans value explicit communication and clearly articulated messages.

Context

Individualism

Time orientation

Power distance

Two barriers prevent people from successfully understanding and accepting people from other cultures: ethnocentrism and stereotypes. Fortunately,