Sometimes we are faced with difficult intercultural challenges at the workplace or in our personal lives. Here is a good example of a common question asked within the intercultural arena:
Q:
Why do Americans have such short attention spans? When Americans ask questions and I begin to answer with the necessary context they need to understand my point, the Americans “turn-off” or change the subject. I find it quite rude, but I guess that’s just how Americans are.
- A French Executive working for a German Multinational Company
A:
In the example above, one potential cultural explanation is based on Trompenaars’ Dilemma of Specific v. Diffuse. Specific cultures tend to be to-the-point, singular in focus, and “efficient.” Diffuse cultures tend to value context, inter-relationships, and aesthetics. Americans tend to be more “specific” culturally than the French. So when an American asks a question, he tends to want a direct answer first. Some call it Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF). If an American wants more context, he’ll ask for it after hearing the answer.
An example of a typical intercultural challenge
American: Should I visit the Eiffel Tower while I’m in Paris?
French: Well the Eiffel Tower is largely regarded as an architectural wonder. It was meant to be a temporary structure for the 1889 International Exhibition in Paris that was held to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the French Revolution. It has two restaurants and you can use stairs or an elevator to get to the lower two levels. You’ll need to take an elevator to get to the top. It’s one of the most visited sites in the world with a great view of Paris. The lines can be long so the best time to arrive is before the Tower opens. Many Americans I’ve met say it’s something you just have to do, though the view from the Arc de Triomphe is quite nice and one doesn’t need to wait in line so long.
American: Thanks… (though he probably stopped paying attention after the first sentence)
An alternative to deal with the American’s specific tendencies
American: Should I visit the Eiffel Tower while I’m in Paris?
French: Yes, it’s quite nice, if you have the time.
American: Does it take a lot of time?
French: Yes, the lines can be long, but if you go before it opens the lines are shorter. Do you know there is another great view of Paris?
American: No, where?
French: The Arc de Triomphe has a great view and the lines are usually short.
American: The Arc de Triomphe… (with a questioning look)
French: Yes, it’s very famous. I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of it from WWII in the liberation of Paris.
American: Oh yes! Thank you for tip!
If you want to learn more about Trompenaar’s Seven Dimensions, you can catch his explanation of them on YouTube by clicking here. Also, for more intercultural challenges examples, check out Trompenaars blog here.
