International Context of HRM- Individual Project (3000 words) Essay

International Context of HRM- Individual Project (3000 words) - Essay Example2008). This approach, the authors claim, does not negate Hofstedes four-dimensional approach to categorize a finical culture (G. Hofstede, The cultural relativity theory of organizational practices and theories 1983) but actually supplements it. The authors are firmly of the opinion that mere judging a culture through the optical prism of Hofstedes matrix would hardly provide a proper perspective for an international manager. A reasonable knowledge of bilateral history is also extremely necessary to successfully overcome deep seated prejudices, biases and negative stereotypes that seem to cloud judgment in a very big way among participate groups. However, Hofstedes cultural matrix, which is further crystallized into cultural length (Kogut & Singh, 1988), surely remains one of the most influential guidelines on this issue. Theories of Hofstede and Trompenaars compared and contrasted with reference to oth er relevant theories Gerard Hofstedes Value Survey Model classifies cultures with reference to four dimensions that are power distance, incredulity avoidance, and individuality versus collectivism and masculinity versus femininity (Hofstede, The cultural relativity of organizational practices and theories 1983). Trompenaars on the other hand offers an analytical framework based on seven criterions that are universalistic versus particularistic, neutral versus affective, particularized versus diffuse, achievement versus ascription, individualism versus communitarianism and attitudes towards time and the environment (Trompenaars 1994). Out of these seven dimensions, at least two seem to closely replicate Hofstedes concept of individuality versus collectivism plot of ground somewhat resembling the concept of power distance. Trompenaars description of how an individual is accorded status in a society has a close link to Hofstedes power distance index if one assumes that status is ac corded more due to nature rather than achievement. However, the match is not exact as Hofstede also dwells at length on acceptable power distances within a society, an issue that is not discussed by Trompenaars at all. Further, the neutral versus affective criterion postulated by Trompenaars is more of a behavioral feature rather than a criterion itself. The extent to which an individual would express their feelings is more of a dependent on other aspects of a culture kinda of being in aspect by itself. Trompenaars universalistic versus particularistic aspect that is reflected in a preference for rules and stipulations rather understanding and trust resembles both uncertainty avoidance criterions to a large extent while at the same time having some similarity with individuality versus collectivism as espoused by Hofstede. However, the specific versus diffuse aspect of Trompenaars has no direct parallel in Hofstedes cultural dimensions. Trompenaars criterion of attitudes towards