Introduction
The cultural differences that arise due to the various issues including the misunderstandings of the language that is commonly spoken of as something that the organizations must take care of before they decide to venture into a new country or region. Understanding the difference and similarities between two cultures is a useful step forward. Such examples can be the differences and similarities between Saudi and American cultures.
Differences
The general reaction to strangers in Saudi culture is warm and very friendly so long the stranger does not indulge too much in their religious customs. Strangers should honor their religions, unlike America where free practice and communication about religion is common. There is no such adverse attitude against physical touch among same sexes but is strictly prohibited otherwise. In Saudi culture there is no problem with introduction (Prawer 76). One can introduce oneself with first, middle, or surname and any inquiries about a person are welcome so long it is a two-way affair unlike in the US. The attitude toward punctuality in social or business situations is generally relaxed but punctuality is well appreciated. It is a common custom for businesspeople to socialize before conducting business. The ideal of participatory management is used in most sectors but not all (Gervers 231).
America’s sway on business culture across the world is instantly recognizable. “The greetings, dress codes, and agendas are different from what any foreigner” (Prawer 324). Saudi culture, in this case, is habituated. Here are a few appropriate approaches to demeanor commerce in an opposite manner in the United States. The primary business ideologies associated with the United States are novelty, risk, entrepreneurial expertise and honesty as compared to Saudi Arabia, where interpersonal relationship comes first, humility viewed as a virtue time horizon accountable by the generation, respect for seniority, astuteness and aptitude.
Saudi business customs are centered around relationships, reclusive, everyone minding his/her own business, particularly with strangers and people outside of the relationship network, Quiet ,standoffish and awkward communications, no Group decisions, final decision by the boss, blind trust in each other, people’s Endeavour to live up to written or oral accords and in upholding trustworthiness, Indirect and courteous dealings with Business Counterparts, taking things personally, persistent gratitude and grudge for both favors and humiliations respectively, weak aptitude to make instantaneous rejoinder (Gervers 117).
Saudi culture considers that potential business partners should build a relationship and if successful, commercial dealings will follow. Commercial law is embedded in our accepted wisdom. However, conventionally, commercial law barely existed in Saudi culture and positively indicated bad faith. Moreover, it should be noted that there is a huge difference in food habits. Having pork is blasphemy in Saudi culture otherwise, other food habits remain the same.
Similarities
However there are similarities too. Facial expressions or gestures are considered to be rude thus everything should be done with a smiling face. There are no specified rules regarding the distance of standing but it generally comes closer with time and verbal intimacy. Eye contacts are essential element of proving good faith and intimacy among both cultures. Exchanging business cards is the most widely practiced customs-related business. Another similarity is the gesture indicating agreement is a nod and a sideways motion is regarded as disagreement (Prawer 12).
Conclusion
In the context of practical usage, it should be noted that during contract negotiations with a Saudi company there are times of long pronounced silence on the part of the Saudi Arabians. From the American perspective, one would become frustrated at the slow pace of the negotiations. From the Saudi point of view, the negotiations are proceeding quite well (Gervers 116). Differences such as the one illustrated must be kept in mind at all times while communicating to any foreign counterpart.
Works Cited
Gervers, Victor. Visits to Saudi Arabia. London: HBT Publishers Pvt. Ltd, 2006.
Prawer, Allen. Desert Kingdoms. Wellington: Allied Publishers, 2005.