Question

Michael wants to maintain the exact contract that Norio and Roger had established, while Norio is much more hesitant and wants to take time to get to know Michael before signing the contract. Their contrasting approaches represent differences on which cultural value?Multiple Choice

a. Masculinity vs. Femininity

b. Short-term vs. Long-term Orientation

c. High vs. Low Uncertainty Avoidance

d. High vs. Low Power Distance

e. Individualism vs. Collectivism

With Roger being reassigned, Michael was given the PopWear account and does not really know anything about the company or have any clarity on the professional relationship with and expectations of Norio. This, however, does not bother Michael and he eagerly jumps right into trying to close the deal because the United States is _____ on _____.

Multiple Choice

a. Low, Uncertainty Avoidance

b. High, Uncertainty Avoidance

c. Low, Power Distance

d. High, Power Distance

e. Medium, Uncertainty Avoidance

Answer 1

Answer: b. Short-term vs. long-term orientation.

low on uncertainty avoidance

Explanation: Short-term orientation is past- and present-oriented, with a respect for a tradition and fulfilling obligations. This is contrasted with long-term orientation, which emphasizes a focus on the future through persistence, prudence, and thrift. In this case, the established contract with Roger is a past obligation that has not been fulfilled and Michael is very focused on fulfilling it. On the other hand, however, Norio is exhibiting more persistence and caution (i.e., prudence) before signing the contract and wants to get to know Michael better so that he can trust him.

Low uncertainty avoidance means that a culture tolerates uncertain and ambiguous situations and values unusual ideas and behaviors. The United States is known to be low on the uncertainty avoidance scale. Here, Michael eagerly jumps into an uncertain situation with a new client before doing enough research on cultural differences.