Question

Molly, a company mediator, had agreed to help Martin and Samir. The two men had been in constant disagreement ever since they became co-managers of the marketing department two months ago, and this disagreement was starting to impact all parts of the department. During a mediation session, Molly asked the men to explain their conflict over a recent business proposal. "Tell me exactly which part of the proposal is causing the issues," she instructed.

"Well," Samir started cautiously, "I grew up in Arizona, and I know that the Hispanic American community there sometimes does things differently from the way we do things here in New York. Martin wants to try to close the deal quickly, but I don't think that will work. We need to focus on building relationships. I'm afraid Martin's way of operating might cause some conflict with the client."

"But Samir's approach will take too long! Do you want to be successful or not?" Martin said.

By taking into account differences in the Hispanic American community's cultural orientation, Samir is considering their __________ when determining the proposal approach.

• intercultural inventory

• subculture

• preferred conflict style

• cross-culture

Answer 1

The correct answer is: d. cross- culture.

Cross culture is a concept that recognizes the differences among business people of different nations, backgrounds. and ethnicities, and the importance of bridging them. With globalization, cross culture education has become critically important to businesses.