Theory X is referred to when the management style of Brazil, South Korea and Spain is being described. Which factors do the management styles of these three countries share that reflect Theory X? Which factors indicate any differentiation between the styles? Management styles in six countries The Netherlands Decision-making within a Dutch company is ‘slow, formal and deliberate’. The approach is a rational, analytical one, whereby all those involved, including managers who are senior in rank, work together to achieve the most effective outcome.

The need to build consensus is uppermost. The actual formal meetings where the decisions are taken are usually preceded by informal consultation, referred to by Morden as ‘management by walking around’

(MBWA). This reflects the emphasis on Theory Y and Z, as does the decentralized and autonomous approach to getting the task done. Rather than being someone who prescribes action, the manager is seen as facilitating and co-ordinating action agreed upon through consensus.

Brazil A typical organization has a strong hierarchy with control enforced from the top. Theory X is reflected in the way that managers exercise authority and direct subordinates. Here, MBWA is used to check that underlings are doing what they are told to do and at the same time to give fatherly reassurance.

With improved education and a developing economy, Theory Y is being applied which entails increased responsibility.

However, decision-making still tends to be centralized and done so on a short-term basis since economic conditions (especially inflation rates and high dependence on global commodity markets) discourage longer term planning.