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The Factor of Individualism

This document discusses three key cultural differences that can impact international business interactions: individualism vs collectivism, differing views on smiling, and cultural norms around eye contact. It notes that Vietnam and Eastern cultures tend to be more collectivist and value loyalty, while the US emphasizes individualism. Smiling has different meanings across cultures - seen as insincere in Russia but friendly in the US. Eye contact norms also vary, with direct eye contact considered disrespectful in Japan but a sign of attention in the US. Being aware of these differences can help avoid misunderstandings, but cultural stereotypes should not replace understanding each person's unique identity and experience.

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Mak Gnohod
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44 views2 pages

The Factor of Individualism

This document discusses three key cultural differences that can impact international business interactions: individualism vs collectivism, differing views on smiling, and cultural norms around eye contact. It notes that Vietnam and Eastern cultures tend to be more collectivist and value loyalty, while the US emphasizes individualism. Smiling has different meanings across cultures - seen as insincere in Russia but friendly in the US. Eye contact norms also vary, with direct eye contact considered disrespectful in Japan but a sign of attention in the US. Being aware of these differences can help avoid misunderstandings, but cultural stereotypes should not replace understanding each person's unique identity and experience.

Uploaded by

Mak Gnohod
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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A lot of business activities today are conducted across the country, and while the

majority of international conferences may use the common language of English, the
nuances of culture can vary greatly between culture. Our business partners' lack of
understanding of cultural norms and practices can lead to misunderstandings and
communication failures. Here are three basic aspects of differentiation around the world
that can give you control when you work with someone from another culture.
- The factor of individualism
Vietnam and most Eastern countries are collectivists. A collectivist culture values
long-term commitment and loyalty. In such a society that promotes relationship building
and maintaining, where each individual is responsible for his or her collective.
In contrast, the United States is the most recognizable representation of
individualist culture. In these societies, themselves and close family are the two most
important factors for each individual, they value their self-image and try to assert their
position in society.
- Smile
In Russia there is a saying: 'a smile for no reason is a sign of foolishness' and the
so-called 'smile of respect' is considered insincere and is often considered suspicious in
Russia. However, in countries like the United States, Australia, and the UK, smiling is
often interpreted as a sign of openness, friendship and respect, and is often used to break
ice. In Germany, Switzerland, China and Malaysia, people who laugh a lot are considered
smarter than people who don't. However, in Russia, Japan, Korea, and Iran, pictures with
smiling faces are judged to be less intelligent than non-smiling ones. In countries like
India, Argentina and the Maldives, smiling is associated with dishonesty.
- Eye contact
Americans or Britons often make eye contact with their customers to show that
they are paying full attention to what is being said. But Japanese or Korean people may
find direct eye contact awkward or even disrespectful. In parts of South America and
Africa, prolonged eye contact can also be seen as a power challenge. In the Middle East,
eye contact between people of the opposite sex is considered inappropriate, although eye
contact within one gender may indicate honesty.
Being more aware of cultural differences can help us avoid instances of
misinformation, we also need to remember that cultural stereotypes can be detrimental to
building relationships. good business. Although national culture can play a part in shaping
the way we behave and think, we are also largely influenced by the region we come from,
the communities we combine, age and gender. our identity, our corporate culture, and our
personal experience of the world.

Anh/ chị hãy chuẩn bị kỹ một số câu trả lời bằng tiếng Anh trước khi đưa ra lời
khuyên cho đồng nghiệp của mình.

- Yêu cầu: Hãy tập trả lời lưu loát các câu hỏi sau:

1. Which country is she going to visit?


2. When is she going to visit?
3. What can you tell her about this country?
4. How does she greet her business partners?
5. What are good topics of conversation in this country?

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