The processes of globalization have a significant impact on all international communities. During the twentieth century, collaboration among different nations reached a higher level. The global economy, politics, entertainment industry, and business have drastically changed and require new more efficient approaches. However, cultural differences can both hinder and enhance the effectiveness of such interactions. Hence, the success of cooperation depends on cultural development. It is a complex term that includes various aspects. There are three levels of cultural development: cultural awareness, culture’s impact on business, and cultural differences for competitive advantage. The main goal of this paper is to describe my personal experience along the lines of the stages of cultural development.
Cultural Awareness
Cultural awareness implies understanding of the differences among people from other countries and societies. It allows highlighting their values, beliefs and attitudes. When I was 14, I studied in Singapore for about one year, and this experience significantly improved my cultural awareness. It is a small country that is located in South East Asia. Singapore is one of the most urbanized cities in the world, and it attracts various international businessmen to develop new companies and cooperate with existing ones. Also, this country is perceived as one of the best places for workers. Therefore, Singapore is a multicultural state. Its population is very diverse, though it is mostly made up of Chinese, Malays, and Indians.
However, it is not too difficult to communicate in Singapore as the English language is widely spoken there. Local people are very peaceful and open-minded, and they easily accept differences of various cultures. However, it is necessary to demonstrate respect for some conventions and learn correct etiquette. For example, when people meet, they always shake hands and give a little bow as showing respect for others creates a favorable atmosphere and enhances communication. Another important custom is punctuality because it is extremely impolite to be late. However, in many Asian countries, people do not pay much attention to their timekeeping skills as it is unnecessary to be on time. For example, in my home country, China, people might be late for an hour or even more, and it does not elicit negative emotions in others. However, the most noticeable characteristics of Singapore are its cleanliness and tidiness. Singaporeans are very concerned about the quality of the environment. It is forbidden not only to smoke but even chew gum in public places.
Culture’s Impact on Business
All these cultural characteristics have a significant impact on business and the professional world. Business etiquette is based on major Singaporean traditions that emphasize politeness and respect towards each other. On business meetings, they avoid small talks and prefer discussing issues on the agenda. Singaporeans do not speak about controversial topics like politics or religion during such meetings as well. Therefore, business partners always hold themselves in a respectable civilized manner, avoiding strong disagreements. Also, the dress code in Singapore is more casual and relaxed in comparison with other Asian countries. There are no specific requirements for the colors of business attire, though it should look smart.
However, most people wear classic clothes and do not stand out in the crowd. In addition, business gifts are a very common convention there as they help to express gratitude and respect. However, it should be something insignificant like a pen with the logo of the company. Another important tradition is the way of exchanging business cards. It is necessary to give and take a card with both hands and carefully investigate it after receiving. Also, a person should put a card in a safe place without folding it. Also, introductions are a very important aspect of Singaporean business etiquette. It is necessary to call the person’s first and family names and title. Another distinct characteristic is equality of genders. The women in Singapore very often hold high positions in companies. However, Singaporeans respect the racial equality as well. For example, when they do business with Malays, who are Muslim, Singaporean businessmen avoid making deals on Fridays or during Islamic holidays. Also, they never serve pork or alcohol during business lunches. Similar rules take place when Singaporeans collaborate with Indians or other cultures that have strict conventions.
Professional Effectiveness and Competitive Advantage
The described above levels are very important as this knowledge might be applied in a professional field. Currently, I am studying business administration in the United States, which is also a multicultural country. One of the main objectives of this discipline is how to establish an effective work environment despite various cultural differences, and even more, how to apply such individual characteristics to enhance the overall performance of a business. The ability to cooperate with people from different countries depends on cultural competency. It includes many aspects like the interaction with individuals whose native language is different, who hold other beliefs, or who lead an unusual lifestyle. Hence, nowadays, cultural competency is a crucial factor for the successful performance of specialists in different areas. I believe that my international experience enhanced this ability as the knowledge that I gained while living in Singapore helps me communicate and cooperate with students and teachers from other countries.
We complete different group projects, and it requires effective interaction among team members. Cultural differences sometimes hinder the progress of our cooperation, though they also can be very helpful. For example, Latin students are often very confident, extraverted, and easy-going. Hence, they usually get the role of a leader who can guide and navigate the whole team through the project. On the other hand, Asian students are normally more quiet and calm, thus they can complete parts of an assignment that requires thorough research. Organizational aspect also depends on the origin of students. As I mentioned before, Asians tend to be less punctual than West people. Hence, when arranging meetings with individuals from Asia, I know that being late will not be considered to be impolite or disrespectful. Therefore, it is possible to benefit from such cultural differences as they improve the overall performance and contribute to competitive advantages. Every culture has characteristics that can enhance professional accomplishments. Hence, efficient collaboration in multicultural groups is the most important factor that can boost the competitiveness of any venture. However, the lack of cultural competence might lead to less favorable outcomes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cultural development is a crucial factor that affects relationships among international communities. Cultural differences should be taken into consideration in various areas like global business and social and political programs. The concept of cultural development includes three major levels: cultural awareness, impact on business, and the improvement of collaboration. The first stage is to determine traditions, norms, and customs of a particular nation or society. The second stage is focused on the influence of such conventions on business rules and etiquette. Finally, the last stage is necessary to apply this knowledge in order to enhance the performance and cooperation. Therefore, cultural development is an essential concept that can contribute to globalization and prosperity of nations.