Recognizing the “Differences Between Groups” is a method of examination that may be utilized to identify the differentiations in cultures between gender groups inside corporations or even countries.[1] With the recognition of dissimilarities in mind and the careful respect of them as you assemble, business meetings will be more successful by building partnerships with companies from other cultures based upon understanding and not stereo-types. In fact, when understanding begins, consideration builds which may lead to the creation of consensus that have the potential of opening doors to new international business sectors.
In pondering on the “Differences Between Groups”, I was reminded of a business fact finding trip that I took to Tel Aviv, Israel. Naturally, I was uncertain of what to expect when I arrived. While on the plane, this gruff Israeli gentleman sat next to me. After I asked him to teach me some common phrases that I should use while in Israel, the gruffness disappeared and the teacher emerged. After the teacher, came the financial advisor, followed by the philosopher. It was a terrific flight and one that began to give me insights into the differences between American and Israeli cultures. Paraphrasing the University of Winnipeg[2], this was a wonderful example of the “Israeli Sabra or prickly pair mentality of tough on the outside and soft of the inside.”
Other differences between our two cultures are, Americans like space and shaking hands while Israelis hug and slap backs and have no understanding of an American’s need for personal space. According to the “Israel News Agency”[3] they view our need for space and shaking of hands as artificial and fake. Also, where we view their directness as harsh and rude they see it as merely getting to the heart of the matter.
Additionally, while there, my host kept telling me about his relationship with this business owner or that vendor. His emotional need to introduce me to his business associates was real. It was necessary for him to give me insight into his business reach, reputation and ability to sway decisions in his favor. Israeli’s are inclined to do business based on emotion where American’s choose to be a bit more methodical and logical in their decision making[4].
The “Diversity Between Groups is something to be welcomed as each culture brings another strength to the table and once understood, strong alliances can be formed and new business sectors opened up for future top line growth and the opportunity for potential profits.
[1] Chapter 1. (2014). In Managing Cultural Differences (9th ed.). Routledge.
[2] Cultural Differences. (n.d.). Retrieved August 25, 2016, from http://ion.uwinnipeg.ca/~aappel1/iscultur.html
[3] The Cross-Cultural Do’s And Don’ts Between Israel And US. (n.d.). Retrieved August 25, 2016, from http://israelnewsagency.com/crossculturaltipsdosdontsdoingbusinessisraelus489051207.html
[4] Cultural Differences. (n.d.). Retrieved August 25, 2016, from http://ion.uwinnipeg.ca/~aappel1/iscultur.html
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