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Understanding American Culture’s Dimensions for Effective Work in Virtual, Diverse Teams. Corina Mihaela Paraschiv , Communications & Marketing Director for Rotaract in the USA, Canada & Carrabbean’s. Do You See What I See?. Power Distance. North Americans have Low Power Distance.
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Understanding American Culture’s DimensionsforEffective Work in Virtual, Diverse Teams CorinaMihaelaParaschiv, Communications & Marketing Director for Rotaract in the USA, Canada & Carrabbean’s
North Americans have Low Power Distance • “We are all equal” mentality • It is ok to constructively criticize a superior’s idea • Seeking answers from peers is valid • Horizontal , decentralized structure • Involve everyone in decision-making • Leaders are facilitators and coordinators
North Americans are Individualist • Less concerned with self-categorizing • Less influenced by group membership • Greater skills in entering and leaving new groups • Engage in more open and precise communication • Willingness to respond to ambiguous messages Easier to trust others in computer-mediated communications
North Americans have low uncertainty avoidance • Practical, pragmatic culture • Do not impose unnecessary rules or structure • Accepting of changes • Planning and organizing is important • Accommodations can be made when need arises • “Shit Happens” philosophy • People will understand external circumstances • Take the time to reflect and “cool off” before reacting
North Americans are mid-range on Masculinity • Trend is shifting towards Higher Feminity • North American Ideals : • A man can do anything a woman can • Avoid “old men’s club” • Powerful & successful women are respected • Women are welcome to participate to leadership roles • In reality: • “Real men” mustn’t show emotions • Certain inequalities still exist (but are changing)
North Americans have Short-Term Orientation • Tradition is not valued as much as progress • High creativity and individualism valued • Don’t hesitate to introduce necessary changes • Promote equality, regardless of ancienty • Sames rules apply to everyone • Innovation can stem from any group member • Value results • Task-oriented culture, not relationship-based • Not a “face saving” culture