Topic > Egypt, Mexico, and the United States: Understanding Cultural Similarities and Differences

IndexManagement StylesCommunication StylesDressMotivating EmployeesFor many years, research on business interactions in various cultures has focused on companies based in the United States. The purpose of writing this article is to continue to expand this research to include Egypt and Mexico and examine several significant cultural differences between the three that may influence trade interactions. Initial findings indicate that while significant differences exist, more similarities exist. The aim is to guarantee the best conditions for managers, so that they can give their best at work. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayCultural differences pose a challenge for anyone planning to support business operations in another country, such as Egypt, Mexico, or the United States. Managers will encounter situations in their business environment, where they will face cultural, communication and physical appearance barriers. This paper 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 may be common to see this reflected in most of their management styles. Egyptian managers will engage their colleagues and subordinates for feedback, but will likely make an authoritative decision. Egyptian managers expect their subordinates to follow their decisions precisely, and any criticism of such decisions is not welcome. According to Greer and Stephens (1995), the Mexican managerial management style can be characterized as autocratic and paternalistic. Mexican managers take an authoritative approach and are interested in taking care of the dignity of employees. Like their Egyptian colleagues, Mexican managers expect their subordinates to follow instructions with little or no dissent. In contrast, American management styles are very individualistic because managers are held accountable for any decisions made for their respective teams. In most cases you will find American managers openly embracing dialogue with their teams regarding a “big decision”. However, American managers are more likely to ignore subordinates' opinions, which could lower morale. There are many similarities between Egyptian, Mexican, and American management styles, including the fact that hierarchical structures are key. However, there is a possibility that managers ignore feedback from their colleagues and/or subordinates. All three cultures hold managers highly accountable for the decisions they make. Despite the similarities, there are fundamental differences in management styles: for example, in Mexico managers are more likely to care about the dignity of employees when making decisions or providing feedback, while their Egyptian and American counterparts are less likely to take into account the “dignity of employees” in their decision-making process. Communication Styles According to Imachukwu (2014), “Communication is a key component to the success of multicultural teams. Misunderstanding nonverbal behaviors is a problem that results in a breakdown in communication, potentially reducing team efficiency and productivity.” In Egypt, most people will stand close to each other when communicating. This is accompanied by strong eye contact. In some cases, it may seem as if Egyptians are shouting at each other in the middle of a controversial discussion; however it isIt's important to remember that this is done to convey passion. According to Home Today Translations, it is advisable to have an Egyptian representative explain the highlights of your business in Arabic. Many educated Egyptians speak multiple languages, but appreciate brevity and, therefore, would prefer Arabic. In Mexico, most people will stand close to each other when communicating and have strong eye contact. Mexicans tend to show emotion when having a controversial discussion, as this implies commitment. Most Mexicans will address each other by their last names, switching to a friendlier name once the relationship is established. In the United States, people stand close together and expect eye contact if they want to be taken seriously. As described by Bakhtari (1995), 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 viewed as hostile, insecure, unreliable, inattentive and impersonal.” All three cultures have a certain level of tolerance when expressing emotions during heated conversations (e.g. yelling, being very cutting); however, the United States has its limitations and overly emotional engagements could be considered unprofessional. Smart Attire The importance of smart attire for business can vary by country and industry. According to Tice (2011), appearance was second only to communication skills when interviewees 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 is more conservative. For example, men might wear slacks, a jacket, and a shirt with a tie to most business meetings. The same guidance applies to women with modesty in mind. Any skirts or dresses should be longer. In many Egyptian business circles, it would be considered quite offensive if a foreigner wore local clothing, as this is something reserved for Egyptians. In Mexico, Mexicans are quite status driven and you have to "look the part". Therefore, what men and women wear is of great importance and it is crucial to dress how they want to be perceived. In Mexico there is no such thing as "dressing too much", in fact it is encouraged. The region of Mexico you are in will definitely have an impact on what they should wear, for example, in Mexico City you will find more formal attire, whereas, in more rural areas, you will find that nice shirts and trousers or even jeans will be fine. the makeup. In the United States, clothing can vary from region to region and even from industry to industry; however, what is certain is that there is a time and place for every type of clothing. For example, in the West you are more likely to find more informal dress codes (e.g. business casual), while in the East you may find more strict dress codes (e.g. jacket and tie). Due to the significant differences in dress requirements within the United States, the best advice is to check with others who are local or who have visited the office you are visiting. There are many similarities in work attire between Egyptians and.