Classmates responses - Coursework Example

Cultural Differences The two videos on cultural misunderstanding reveal some of the consequences that may result from efficient cultural literacy. From the videos, the cultural differences on issues such as time, diet, the context of communication and other factors that need to be analyzed critically before one indulges in international business are presented. The differences between the European business culture and the Middle Eastern culture are described through the case study presented. From the misunderstandings that result between the business partners, it becomes evident that none of the partners had considered the cultural dimensions described by Hofstede.

If they had considered such dimensions, they would have been more sensitive to cross cultural differences between the European culture and that of the business partners (Ridley 110). This would have eased the communication between partners and closure of the deal. Response to JenniferHi Jennifer,I agree with you that the concept of time is different across cultures. In Europe, people are generally more sensitive about the passage of time, which is regarded as highly valuable. On the other hand, Arabs, Latin Americans as well as Africans believe that time can be elastic; therefore, they are more reluctant to keep deadlines (114).

This was evident from the business partner who arrived almost an hour late. The Germans viewed such a gesture negatively because the partner had wasted their time. On the other hand, understanding the dietary preferences of different culture is a critical cultural aspect. If cultural literacy had been considered as serious as expected, some of the misunderstanding that compromised the negotiation process would not have occurred. The video is a strong reminder for any business partner intending to go global that there is a salient need for a rigorous research process concerning cross cultural differences.

Response to JosephHi Joseph, The importance conducting research on cross cultural differences and their impact on global businesses cannot be underestimated. The videos place emphasis to this point. Although cultural aspects such as diet and the view of time may be viewed as minor issues, they have an immense potential of affecting businesses negatively (115). This is the reason why theorists such as Hofstede focused on describing cultural dimensions that should be considered prior to engaging in international business.

As the video highlights, there is an outstanding difference between European culture, Indian and the Middle East cultures. Cultural differences between these three cultures hindered the closure of the deal as expected (117). Work CitedRidley, Linda. Managing Diversity in a Global Economy .McGraw Hill Irwin, 2014. eBook.