Assignment task:
Why is it important to understand the culture of a country? In this case, why China?
According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, total U.S. trade with China in 2018 was $737.1 billion. Exports to China were $557.9 billion. China is currently the largest trading partner of two-way goods with the U.S. and is the largest supplier of U.S. imports as of 2018. American business connection to China is critically strong. The U.S. in many ways is dependent on Chinese business and production. Thousands of American businesses rely on sound Chinese/American relations that support American business endeavors abroad. Doing business in China requires U.S. businessmen and women to understand cultural nuances that are ingrained in Chinese ways of life and conducting business.
Review the Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions-Country Comparison.
You can use this site to compare cultural aspects of both the United States and China.
Scenario:
Your company's training manager has read your earlier suggestions (based on work in Module 2) and is impressed with the quality of your research. He is about to start some training for employees relocating to China as expatriates for three years, and he has reached out to you for some guidance in terms of cultural differences. You realize that it is an important assignment and China's culture is different from American culture. The training manager wants to ensure that he is sending the right people and wants to make sure that this team is adequately prepared for both the task and acclimating respectfully to the culture. Your goal is to produce high-quality analysis and recommendations.
Part 1: Your Initial Post
Respond to the following questions:
- What personality traits should the candidates being assigned to China have? Think specifically about Chinese culture as it compares to American culture.
- Using Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions as the basis of your analysis, what information would you provide in pre-departure training?
- Reflecting on the organization you work for (or an organization that you have worked for previously), describe the practices and training that exist in your organization to promote global cultural awareness and appreciation. (See Assessing Your Cultural Intelligence).
In your initial post, you are required to reference at least 3 course materials.
Note: Please continue to maintain the anonymity of your organization by not disclosing information identifying it. It is ok to share organizational purpose and departmental composition. If you are not currently in the workplace, you may provide answers based on previous employment experiences or the corporation selected for the final project.
Part 2: Connect with Your Classmates' Posts
Meaningfully engage with classmates' posts to move the conversation forward.
After reading the proposed cultural preparation plans and reflections posted by your peers, review Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions website linked above once again. Consider their insights and recommendations regarding cultural comparison and best cultural acclimation practices. Post at least three reflections for your peers. Use the following questions as guidance for your reflections:
- What are the similarities and differences between your organizations in terms of recognizing different cultures?
- How is this manifested?
- What training ideas could benefit your organization and theirs?
A well-crafted recommendation would incorporate references to the details provided in the profiles with direct linkages to your advice. To strengthen the credibility of your recommendations, cite evidence to support it.
Requirements:
See the Discussion rubric for a comprehensive list of the requirements. Keep in mind the following:
- Post no more than 300 words for your initial post.
- Justify your explanations by including in-text citations and your references in APA format as applicable.
- In your initial post, you are required to reference at least 3 course materials.
- Read any postings already provided by your instructor or fellow students and respond accordingly. Remember to read the feedback to your own major postings and reply to it throughout the module.
- Review your writing for grammar and spelling before posting.
- Reference and properly cite your work: APA style