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Essay / Egypt, Mexico, and the United States: Understanding Cultural Similarities and Differences
Table of ContentsManagement StylesCommunication StylesDress AttireMotivating EmployeesFor many years, research on business interactions in diverse cultures has focused on business based in the United States. The reason for writing this article is to continue to expand this research to include Egypt and Mexico and to examine several significant cultural differences between the three that could affect business interactions. Initial results indicate that while there are significant differences, there are more similarities. The objective is to offer the best conditions to managers, so that they can give the best of themselves at work. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Cultural differences present a challenge for anyone considering supporting business operations in another country, such as Egypt, Mexico, or the United States. . Managers will be faced with situations in their professional environment, in which they will face barriers of culture, communication and physical appearance. This article will explore the similarities and differences between Egyptians, Mexicans and Americans and how this information can be leveraged to ensure smooth business interaction. Management Styles Many Egyptian companies are very hierarchical, and it can be common to see this reflected in a majority of their management styles. Egyptian managers will seek advice from peers and subordinates, but will likely make an authoritative decision. Egyptian managers expect their subordinates to follow their decisions precisely and any criticism of these decisions is not welcome. According to Greer and Stephens (1995), the Mexican management style can be characterized as autocratic and paternalistic. Mexican managers adopt an authoritarian approach and are keen to take care of the dignity of employees. Like their Egyptian counterparts, Mexican managers expect their subordinates to follow instructions with little or no disagreement. On the other hand, American management styles are very individualistic because managers are held responsible for all decisions made for their respective teams. In most cases, you will find American managers openly entering into dialogue with their teams regarding a “big decision.” However, American managers are more likely to ignore the opinions of their subordinates, which could lead to lower morale. There are many similarities between Egyptian, Mexican and American management styles, including the fact that hierarchical structures are paramount. However, it is possible for managers to ignore feedback from their peers and/or subordinates. All three cultures view managers as highly responsible for all decisions they make. Despite the similarities, there are key differences in management styles. For example, in Mexico, managers are more likely to consider employee dignity when making decisions or providing feedback, whereas their Egyptian and American counterparts are less likely to consider employee dignity. the “dignity of employees” in their decision-making. Communication Styles According to Imachukwu (2014), “communication is a key element to the success of multicultural teams. Poor understanding of nonverbal behaviors is a problem that leads to a breakdown in communication.communication, potentially reducing team efficiency and productivity. In Egypt, most people stand close together when communicating. This is accompanied by strong eye contact. In some cases, it may seem like Egyptians are shouting at each other in the middle of a contentious discussion; however, it is important to remember that this is done to convey passion. According to Home Today Translations, it is advisable to have an Egyptian representative to explain the major points of your activity in Arabic. Many educated Egyptians speak multiple languages, but they appreciate brevity and, therefore, would prefer Arabic. In Mexico, most people also stand close to each other when communicating and have close eye contact. Mexicans tend to show emotion during a controversial discussion because it implies commitment. Most Mexicans will address each other using their last name, switching to a friendlier first name when the relationship is established. In the United States, people stand close to each other and expect eye contact if they want to be taken seriously. As Bakhtari (1995) describes, Americans are very informal and direct. They don't talk about things. They tend to say exactly what they mean. To some foreigners, this appears to be abrupt or even inappropriate behavior. There are many similarities between Egyptian, Mexican, and American communication styles, including the fact that they all prefer direct eye contact when conversing. Abramson, NR and Moran, RT (2018), noted that “in many Western cultures, a person who does not maintain good eye contact is considered slightly suspicious. Those who avoid eye contact are unconsciously seen as hostile, insecure, untrustworthy, inattentive and impersonal.” All three cultures have a certain level of tolerance for expressing emotions during heated conversations (i.e. shouting, being very pointed); However, the United States has its limits and overly emotional engagements could be considered unprofessional. Dress The importance of business dress can vary by country and industry. According to Tice (2011), appearance ranked second, after communication skills, when respondents cited the qualities most often associated with professionalism. Therefore, it is imperative that managers understand dress norms in various cultures. In Egypt, the recommended dress code is more conservative. For example, men may wear slacks, a jacket, and a shirt with a tie to most business meetings. The same advice applies to women concerned about their modesty. Any skirts or dresses should be longer. In many Egyptian business circles, it would be considered quite offensive for a foreigner to wear native clothing, as this is something reserved for Egyptians. In Mexico, Mexicans are quite status oriented and you have to “look dignified”. Therefore, what men and women wear is of great importance and it is crucial that everyone dresses the way they want to be perceived. In Mexico, there is no such thing as “overdressed,” in fact, it is encouraged. The region of Mexico one is in will definitely impact what they should wear, for example, in Mexico City one will find more formal clothing, whereas in more rural areas one will find that nice shirts and pants or even jeans will do. the trick. In the United States, dress may vary from region to region and.