Managerial Styles: A German-Chinese Comparison


Book Description

Essay from the year 2009 in the subject Communications - Intercultural Communication, grade: 1,3, Furtwangen University; Villingen-Schwenningen, language: English, abstract: The paramount goal of intercultural management is to revise organizational patterns in order to provide an understanding of the different approaches used by managers worldwide. Identifying significant differences in management in Germany and China is established through comparison of socio-cultural and managerial variables. Chinese leadership is characterized by more authorial rather than participative management style. This is explained by Chinese historical and cultural background. The Confucius heritage, legacy of communism, synthetic view of the world and interrelatedness of life in China are some of the essential determinants of managerial styles and social roles at all. Rationalism and objectivism, search for certainty, traditional individualism and analytical thinking are some of the key variables to shape the German managerial styles. Socio-cultural differences are examined in terms of way of thinking and perception of the world; contextual meaning and degree of group-orientation. Managerial differences are divided into three categories: organizational structure, managing processes and interpersonal relations.




A comparison of management styles in China and Germany


Book Description

Seminar paper from the year 2018 in the subject Business economics - Business Management, Corporate Governance, grade: 1,9, University of Cooperative Education Villingen-Schwenningen, language: English, abstract: In the following paper, important factors necessary to excel in international management with a clear focus on China will be discussed, while drawing a comparison to Germany. Throughout the examination, the way of approaching the Chinese market is described. Afterwards, culture is considered with relevant factors like power distance and the leader-follower relationship. Then, values are described with important topics like the decision making processes, meetings and negotiations and conflicts. Afterwards, key factors to success will be mentioned, including personal relationships and the feedback culture. Before drawing a conclusion, challenges likely to occur will be mentioned. Due to the increasing importance of globalization and the emergence of many competitors, management structures have become dramatically different in China. Behaviors, dynamics and team conformations change rapidly, requiring organizations to react respectively to stay competitive. Managers face the challenge to compromise different cultures within the workplace. Practical management techniques of one country cannot be easily adapted in another. They differ greatly depending on the culture. To what extent the organization benefits from a culturally diverse workforce is controversial. National values and culture are the biggest obstacle when it comes to achieving management excellence. It requires culture proficiency and responsiveness to meaningful differences in the working environment. But also other factors like the organization’s strategy, economic conditions or the labor market of the host country have an influence on how management practices should be applied. Thus, developing the ability to manage in a cross-cultural context is a prerequisite in doing business successfully in today’s world.




Managerial Styles


Book Description

Essay from the year 2009 in the subject Communications - Intercultural Communication, grade: 1,3, Furtwangen University; Villingen-Schwenningen, language: English, abstract: The paramount goal of intercultural management is to revise organizational patterns in order to provide an understanding of the different approaches used by managers worldwide. Identifying significant differences in management in Germany and China is established through comparison of socio-cultural and managerial variables. Chinese leadership is characterized by more authorial rather than participative management style. This is explained by Chinese historical and cultural background. The Confucius heritage, legacy of communism, synthetic view of the world and interrelatedness of life in China are some of the essential determinants of managerial styles and social roles at all. Rationalism and objectivism, search for certainty, traditional individualism and analytical thinking are some of the key variables to shape the German managerial styles. Socio-cultural differences are examined in terms of way of thinking and perception of the world; contextual meaning and degree of group-orientation. Managerial differences are divided into three categories: organizational structure, managing processes and interpersonal relations.




Cross-Cultural Differences - Japanese and German Management Styles from the German Perspective


Book Description

Inhaltsangabe:Abstract: As the idea of Japan as a leader in management styles and the mythos 'collectivism' as a key to high quality performance and productivity is still in mind of German managers, this work tries to compare actual leadership styles of Japanese and German managers on the level of cultural dimensions. In the study the sample consisted of 119 persons in middle management positions (82 male and 37 female), 60 persons with work experience in Japan and 59 without experience. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding 52 leadership characteristics (e.g. the ability to assert oneself, to cooperate or to delegate) within five cultural dimensions. Participants then rated the importance of this characteristic for the specific category. Findings of the study showed significant differences in experienced and estimated management styles between the countries as well as significances regarding management traits of the german culture after working in Japan. Inhaltsverzeichnis:Table of Contents: CHAPTER ONE9 1.1INTRODUCTION9 1.2STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM11 1.3RESEARCH QUESTION14 CHAPTER TWO15 2.1INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT AND ITS CULTURAL CONTEXT15 2.1.1Culture15 2.1.2Cross-cultural Communication22 2.2.2Cross-cultural Management25 2.2.3Significance for Organization29 2.3SUCCESS FACTORS OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS31 2.4CULTURALLY COMPARATIVE MANAGEMENT RESEARCH35 2.4.1Management-oriented Cultural Research36 2.4.2Cultural Dimensions according to Hofstede40 2.4.2.1Dimension of power distance41 2.4.2.2Dimension of collectivism versus individualism43 2.4.2.3Dimension of masculinity versus femininity44 2.4.2.4Dimension of uncertainty avoidance46 2.4.3The Dimension of the Confucian Dynamic47 2.4.4Further Dimensions of Culture51 2.4.4.1Basic dimensions of culture according to Adler52 2.4.4.2Dimensions of culture according to Trompenaars54 2.5THE SOCIO-CULTURAL BACKGROUND OF JAPANESE MANAGERS57 2.5.1Japanese Confucianism58 2.5.2Corporate collectivism: The uchi mentality60 2.5.3Consensus and participation in management63 2.6THE PRESENT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GERMANY AND JAPAN63 2.6.1General and political relationships63 2.6.2The Economic Relationships65 2.6.2.1Relationships to the European Union (EU)65 2.6.2.2Foreign Trade between Germany and Japan66 2.6.2.3Special Features67 2.6.3Cultural Contacts69 2.7LEADERSHIP STYLES70 2.7.1Definition and aspects of leadership70 2.7.2Differencies in the leadership [...]




Analysis and Comparison of Chinese and German Business Culture with Special Focus on Effective Leadership in China


Book Description

Seminar paper from the year 2015 in the subject Business economics - Business Management, Corporate Governance, grade: 1,7, University of Applied Sciences Essen, language: English, abstract: Economic relations between China and Germany have a long historical tradition. However, during the last two decades trade has increased significantly. From a German point of view high potential growth opportunities and untapped market niches attracted companies to enter the Chinese market. Nevertheless, those entries did not occur without difficulties for business leaders and their workforce due to cultural differences and thus, diverging styles of doing business. As a result, channelling knowledge of the two leadership cultures has become a relevant field to discover helpful aspects of interaction when managing Chinese operations or negotiations as well as cross-border mergers, acquisitions and alliances in China. Against this background, this paper aims for a description of both Chinese and German business culture with a specific focus on leadership in order to improve current understanding of effective leadership in China. In this context, this paper builds on findings of the GLOBE study, which serves as the main scientific basis. First, it will be reasoned why GLOBE study establishes a reasonable fundament for the subject at hand. Second, German and Chinese business and leadership culture will be presented. Third, based on this description a comparison will be drawn in order to reveal applied learning potentials, which will be the fourth part of this paper preceding the conclusion.




Comparative Management Studies


Book Description

All managers, regardless of where they work, must understand certain basic concepts such as the functions, roles, and skills associated with the managerial position and the styles available to managers for use in any given situation. However, context matters, and it is essential that managers understand the role that culture plays in being effective in their positions. This book begins with a brief description of the history and evolution of "management studies", continues with an overview of the scope and practice of comparative management studies, and provides examples of the research that has been done on cross-cultural transfer of management theories. In addition, the book includes materials on the search for, and analysis of, dimensions of management styles that can be used as a basis for creating models that can be used for comparison purposes.




International and Comparative Business


Book Description

′Erudite and accessible, McCann demonstrates how the national gets reconfigured around the global without losing some of its unique features. Far from being a one-size-fits-all Anglo-American template, neoliberalism comes in many different hues and variations. This is by far the best textbook in the field and is destined to become a classic for years to come.′ Manfred B. Steger, Professor of Political Science at the University of Hawai′i-Manoa, Honolulu, Hawai’i, USA ′A sweeping examination of systems of capitalism in theory and in the world’s major industrial economies leads Leo McCann to challenge the conventional wisdom on globalization. Historical analysis of the evolution of business systems and detailed examination of present practice demonstrate persuasively that, despite facing common challenges, distinctive national differences remain salient. A must read for anyone who needs to understand how business systems operate in an increasingly interdependent world economy.′ - Dr Eileen Appelbaum, Senior Economist, Center for Economic and Policy Research, Washington, DC, USA Globalization has profound effects on national economies even as distinct national ‘models’ of capitalism remain. International and Comparative Business accessibly tracks the historical and socio-political contexts of the world’s major countries on a chapter-by-chapter basis to the present day. The book provides a comprehensive, critical, yet concise introduction to each of the economies’ key features, including macro overviews as well as organizational and workplace-level analysis. Each chapter features learning objectives, in-depth interpretation and critique of key literature, and annotated further reading to allow readers to rigorously navigate their way through the wealth of material available for each country. This text is essential reading for students and researchers in the areas of international business and cross-cultural management, comparative political economy, and history. Leo McCann is Senior Lecturer in International and Comparative Management at Manchester Business School, University of Manchester, UK




Nordic leadership


Book Description

Nordic companies and organisations are often distinguished by committedemployees and a high degree of creativity. One reason is a specific Nordicleadership style, which sets itself apart through the delegation of power and responsibility to employees and a high degree of consensus seeking, among other things. Nordic leaders also stress the necessity of co-operation. In addition, they play down their authority and often function more as coaches for their employees. It is also important that leaders are able to inspire their employees, and be visionary yet realistic at the same time. This report describes how various studies on culture, leadership and values characterise the Nordic leadership style. The report also attempts to find factors in Nordic societies that could help explain the leadership style in the Nordic region. Particular attention is given to two of these: the creation of the Nordic welfare state and the tradition of balancing different interests in society, especially within the labour market. The discussion of these factors is also supplemented by examining the role played by the industrial structure.




Women in Top management


Book Description

Ask 110 top female executives from five nations to reflect on their careers and leadership as part of an international scientific study and you will uncover a set of recommendations for women who want to become and remain international business leaders. There is also invaluable advice for corporate managers wanting to recruit skilled women into executive positions. This book is based on the authentic experiences and original words of the interviewees - all of whom are senior female executives - and on the author's analytical insights, all set within a qualitative, scientific framework. In this international research project, the Global Women Career Lab, the author analyzes what motivates these fascinating role models, how they plan their career trajectories, what mechanisms they use to overcome obstacles and what leadership strategies have enabled these women to reach senior management positions. The book offers the reader a remarkable insight into the experiences of women in top business positions in Russia, China, Japan, France and Germany. About the author: Dr. Bettina-Al-Sadik-Lowinski is a researcher, author and certified international mentor-coach (MCC). Following a long management career in multinational companies, she has worked as an international executive coach and expert on diversity in Germany, France, Japan and China. Reviews: "A wealth of testimonials from female role models from all over the world, with valuable advices for women pursuing professional development as well as for companies leveraging diversity for competitive advantage." Hong Chow, China CEO Roche Pharma, Member of Supervisory Board Beiersdorf "Women need other women as role models in management in order to plan their careers more strategically and understand that the sky is unlimited for them. In this book, 110 role models from various countries share their experiences and I was especially impressed by the examples from Asian female leaders." Mari Nogami, President Takeda Consumer Healthcare Japan, Ex (the first) Chair of Women in Business AmCham Japan "As a big advocator for global diversity I recommend this book to all women who want to rise up their careers globally and to corporate leaders who support diversity in their companies worldwide!" Rosa Lee, Executive Vice President of Bosch China, Member of the Board and Corporate HR Head APAC „It’s not right to think that business is a man ́s world. Women are more sensitive and calmer - this makes us different, helps us to balance and makes ladies the best partners for men." Natalia Ryzhkova, CEO Gulliver&Co Int., Russia " International, authentic reports from female top managers from different countries combined with a sound scientific analysis of the growth factors for women in management. Insights across countries. Highly recommended!" Professor Dr. Jutta Rump, Managing Director, Institut of Employability (IBE), University of the Economy and Society Ludwigshafen, Germany „Women need to understand the country specific codes and create their best image as topmanager- using language, their look and body postures. This books shows us the similarities and the differences of female images in top positions in the five nations. Great findings!" Muriel de Saint Sauveur, President Women Masterclass France, former International Marketing, Communications and Diversity Director, Mazars Group, France „Les femmes doivent oser prendre leur juste place dans l’economie, que ce soit en tant qu’entrepreneure ou en tant que cadre dirigeante. C’est une question d’equilibre social mais plus encore de potentiel de performance. Plus de femmes signifie plus de croissance et plus de diversité dans les choix stratégiques. Osez, osez, c’est le maitre-mot à mettre en pratique!" Marie-Claire Capobianco, Ex membre du Comité exécutif du groupe BNPParibas, Membre du Haut Comité de Gouvernement d’Entreprise, France „Chinese female executives have many strengths. Great learnings also from women around the world. A treasure book!" Shelley Chen, Senior Director Human Resources, Communications and Public Relations, Saint-Gobain Pipe, APAC, Head of PAM-LAN- Diversity Institute, China " Top managers from five nations provide insights into how they strategically plan their careers, and break down barriers. The author Dr. Bettina AL-Sadik-Lowinski has managed to work out the cultural differences and similarities between these women. Very educational, worth reading and scientifically sound." Prof. Manuela Rousseau, Deputy chairwoman of the supervisory board and Author, Germany " Finally. International role models report what women need to advance further. The quotes contain a global fund that helps women successfully overcome barriers." Christine Rittner, former Global CHRO, Executive board member, Lidl, Germany " A journey through the career worlds of women of different cultures. Solidarity from women for women. Highly recommended." Dr. Marion Welp, Attorney at Law, Chief Human Resources & Legal Affairs Officer, Member Executive Management Team, Board member, Esprit, Germany "Women in top management positions speak plain language. A great initiative. " Sonja Mechling, Head of Global Marketing, UX & Digital Innovation, Schindler Group, Germany „This world deserves more ladies in the leadership positions as a driver of positive changes. Dr. Bettina and her ladies had found their way to the Top and generously shares it in the book." Evgeny Bazhov, Chief Representative, Russia, Financial Association of EuroAsian Cooperation „Full of valuable insights. A must read to understand how women career paths work. Read it. Implement it." Christine Hesse, CEO Hesse Design, Germany Check out our two webinars on this book! In this panel discussion with female senior executives from different nations USA, China, Japan, Russia and Germany, the subject is what women in top leadership positions in different countries have in common and what makes them different: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-HN5VT64Aw In this video, Dr. Bettina Al-Sadik-Lowinski and her guests, all in high leadership positions themselves, read the authentic quotes from the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcbSiQ7pK9Y&t=1265s




Trust in German-Chinese Business Cooperation


Book Description

What makes international joint ventures successful? Among other key success factors such as strategic fit, material and political-relational incentives, and the cultural compatibility of the joint venture partners, the role of one factor in the successful establishment and management of joint ventures is critical: the mutual trust among the managers involved. This book explores how to establish, develop, and continue to nurture mutual trust between the managers of German and Chinese joint ventures. A series of guided interviews conducted by the authors reveals assessments of Chinese and European executives about their mutual trust in the context of the cultural differences between the two countries, the worldviews characterizing China and Germany, and their impact on the behavior of their executives. The authors then use these judgements from the interviews to make recommendations for action to build more successful cooperation in German-Chinese business cooperation in future joint enterprises. Trust in German-Chinese Business Cooperation is essential reading for managers of international companies and students of business management, business psychology and intercultural management.