Reply to Culture and Leadership Discussion 1
Q – Please read the discussion belo
Reply to Culture and Leadership Discussion 1
Q – Please read the discussion below and prepare a Reply to this discussion post with comments that further and advance the discussion topic.
Please provide the references you used.
Ensure zero plagiarism.
Word limit: 250 words
Discussion
According to Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory, Denmark values employee autonomy and egalitarianism. They expect management to empower and be accessible. In contrast, Mexico and Saudi Arabia have a high hierarchical structure. Subordinates in these countries prefer clear directives and view competent managers as benevolent autocrats. The theory classified Denmark as an individualistic country with a score of 89. In contrast, Mexico and Saudi Arabia are considered collectivistic countries, with scores of 34 and 48, respectively. In such cultures, the relationship between an employer and employee is viewed as familial, and leadership focuses on managing groups. Furthermore, Denmark values collaboration, inclusivity, excellence, equality, and community. Conflict resolution is typically achieved through negotiation and compromise. Success and competition are essential in Mexico, but fairness is also critical. In Saudi Arabia, decisions are often made by seeking consensus. Denmark’s Uncertainty Avoidance score is notably low at 23, signifying a flexible culture at ease with unexpected developments. Conversely, Mexican and Saudi Arabian cultures tend to steer clear of uncertainty, with scores of 82 and 64, respectively. These cultures place a high value on productivity, upholding moral codes, punctuality, and precision. Denmark is known for its emphasis on practicality, adaptability, and persistence, scoring 59. In contrast, Mexican culture strongly focuses on norms and traditions, with a score of 23, as well as efficiency and speed. Additionally, Saudi Arabian society has been found to prioritize the pursuit of ultimate Truth while placing significant value on efficiency and respect for traditions, with a score of 27. Finally, Denmark and Mexico have been classified as Indulgent societies due to their prioritization of personal desires and leisure time. Saudi Arabia has been classified as a Restrained society with a score of 14. (Hofstede Insights, 2021)
The way leaders lead is heavily influenced by culture, which affects how they communicate with their followers, make decisions, and resolve conflicts. Culture can impact leadership in various ways. For instance, leaders in cultures with considerable power distance tend to be more autocratic and make decisions independently, expecting their followers to do the same. In contrast, leaders in low-power distance cultures tend to be more cooperative and delegate decision-making authority while seeking feedback from their subordinates. In individualistic societies, leaders are often more focused on achieving their own goals and recognition. In contrast, in collectivistic societies, leaders prioritize building solid relationships with their subordinates and promoting group harmony. Communication style also varies across cultures, with leaders in societies that value open and honest communication being more direct and assertive. In contrast, societies prioritizing indirect communication tend to be more diplomatic. Finally, leaders from cultures that value confrontation tend to be more assertive and tough when it comes to conflict resolution. In contrast, leaders from cultures prioritizing indirect negotiation and compromise tend to be more accommodating and strive for amicable resolutions. (Lynne, 2023)
References
Hofstede Insights. (2021). Country comparison. https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/denmark,mexico,saudi-arabia/
Lynne, T. (2023). The Surprising Impact of Culture on Leadership Style. Medium. https://medium.com/@tania_lynne/the-surprising-impact-of-culture-on-leadership-style-794517597334