Comparing cultural preferences

Cultural dimensions offer a binary spectrum between opposites and can be used to compare preferred behaviours. They are derived from empirical observations about group behaviors. Several scholars have studied and defined such dimensions, including Geert Hofstede (6 dimensions), Fons Trompenaars (7 dimensions) and Erin Meyer (9 dimensions). These sometimes overlap, or add new dimensions.

There are no good or bad positions on a spectrum, it is just a way to plot preferred positions of cultures, teams or individuals. This allows us to compare and to get a feel for how small or big a cultural gap may be. The position on a scale represents an average position in a bell curve, meaning that an individual position could vary to the left or right of the average position. Let's have a look at some dimensions that could impact the situation of the team in South-Africa.

Power distance

Power Distance is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. On a scale of 1-10 Tom's position is probably around 3 or 4. He is the deputy Head of Mission (4) but he is also Dutch with a preference for delegating responsibilities to lower positions (3). Marieke could very well be on the same page, given her cultural legacy and preference for freedom and autonomy. Matthew, however, would be moving in the direction of 5 to 6 resulting from some traces of British class-consciousness. John and Vanessa were both raised in more hierarchical tribal settings and are likely to be more at ease on a 7-8 position. 

Direct - Indirect Communication 

Marieke is speaking her mind as can be expected from her cultural background. On a scale of 1-10 she is probably comfortable at 2. She likes clear and straight answers. Matthew prefers a more polite way of communicating and would opt for the indirect part of the spectrum at probably 7 (being South-African and not as indirect as the Brits themselves at 9). John and Vanessa are both much more used to staying positive as well as respectful towards authority and opt for 8-9. Where does that leave Tom? His Dutch roots would put him at 2 but as a trained diplomat he will be more at his place around 4. 

Decisionmaking

Another dimension impacting this case is decisionmaking, more specifally consensual or top-down. From a Dutch perspective the most preferred spot would be around 2. Consensus seeking is key and regarded the best outcome for all and making sure that there is maximum support and commitment by the group. Clearly, Tom envisaged also this when he requested the projectteam to organize the event.

Marieke is eager to take up the task and threw in her ideas, expecting that they would be welcomed. Now that she encounters some resistance, she needs to decide whether to go along with the group or push her ideas a little stronger. In a way she wants the team to decide and not get back to Tom about it. She opts for 5. Vanessa joins her since her Mozambican upbringing infused a preference for collective processes. 

Matthew dislikes lengthy discussions and wants to get on with it. He values a decisive leader. As far as he is concerned Tom should break the deadlock so they can move forward. He choses 7 on the scale. And John also appreciates a leader that shows some strength and clear directions forward. 8 is more to his liking.