Question

Watch the following video on cultural differences in business by Valerie Hoeks.

What did you learn about the differences between China and the United States? How does this relate to the class readings and what you are learning about international business?

Answer 1

Valerie Hoeks pointed out several differences between the Chinese and Americans. Most of the differences were cultural and values that are important to the respective cultures. She mainly pointed out the unique Chinese values that is drastically different from American.

The main point out of the lecture is that the Chinese value relationship and long term relationships. However, she demonstrated the importance of relationships through her own experience and the following topics

• Reciprocal favor
• Harmony
• Face

In the class reading we learned about cross cultural differences and how to be receptive to other cultures. We learned about various models that exist such as Hofstede’s dimension. It is important to understand the various tenets of values that are important to different cultures and be sensitive, patient, open and be a good listener to establish success international businesses.