Five Dimensions of Culture

Terry Catherman
July 4, 2011
MHR 6551 Training and Development
Five Dimensions of Culture
Hofstede identified five dimensions of culture. His work identified the differences of people and behavior that shapes the behavior of people.
The first is the individualism/ collectivism orientation. This is a two part definition. Individualism focuses on the individual’s goals and accomplishments. This culture will build a high degree of self respect and independence and what is best for them. Collectivism focuses on what is best for the group. The group decides what is best for the group.
The second is uncertainty orientation which focuses on how the culture feels about uncertainty. It is typical that organizations operation in this environment will be accepting of change and risk taking.
The third is goal orientation which refers to what motivates the person. This is centered on setting goals that will motivate the person to achieve high goals rather they be aggressive or passive.
The forth is power orientation is a degree that people accept the power differences in the hierarchy. In this culture it is accepted that those in a hierarchy have the power to make decisions and those under them do not question that decision.
The fifth and final is time orientation in which people have long term versus short term outlook in their life and work.

Terry Catherman
July 4, 2011
MHR 6551 Training and Development
Technical Knowledge and Skills/ Interpersonal Knowledge and Skills
Technical knowledge and skills are necessary to carry out operations of particular functional areas in a organization such as marketing, engineering, and human resources. An example of this would be a process engineer that areas of manufacturing process knowledge, chemistry, and advanced math skills are expected.
Interpersonal knowledge and skills often referred as personal skills. Employees that manage other employees must have a high degree of personal skills. Some personal skills they must understand employee individual differences, motivating, training and development, building and work team, providing team leadership, and be a effective listener.