Anglo

Definition

The term 'Anglo' generally refers to individuals or cultures that are of English descent, primarily associated with English-speaking countries. In the context of cross-cultural management and the GLOBE study, 'Anglo' typically denotes a cultural dimension that represents societies like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, which share similar values such as individualism, low power distance, and assertiveness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Anglo cultural cluster in the GLOBE study is characterized by a high degree of individualism, meaning that people prioritize personal goals over group objectives.
2. Anglo cultures tend to have low power distance, indicating that hierarchies are often questioned and there is more emphasis on egalitarianism in relationships.
3. In terms of assertiveness, Anglo cultures generally encourage direct communication styles and open expression of opinions, leading to more straightforward interactions.
4. The GLOBE study highlights how Anglo societies value performance-oriented behaviors, which often influences workplace practices and leadership styles in these cultures.
5. Anglo cultures often prioritize long-term orientation and future planning, affecting their approach to business strategies and international relations.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of individualism in Anglo cultures influence workplace dynamics compared to collectivist cultures?
  • In Anglo cultures, individualism fosters an environment where personal achievements and self-reliance are highly valued. This can lead to a competitive workplace where employees are encouraged to showcase their individual skills and accomplishments. In contrast, collectivist cultures emphasize teamwork and group harmony, which can result in different dynamics such as shared responsibilities and consensus decision-making.
• Analyze how low power distance in Anglo societies affects leadership styles and organizational structures.
  • Low power distance in Anglo societies typically results in flatter organizational structures where leaders are more accessible and approachable. This style encourages open communication between different levels of hierarchy, allowing for collaboration and feedback. Leaders in such environments may adopt participative or democratic approaches rather than authoritarian ones, creating a more inclusive workplace culture.
• Evaluate the implications of assertiveness as a cultural trait in Anglo societies on global business interactions.
  • Assertiveness in Anglo cultures can significantly impact global business interactions by shaping communication styles and negotiation tactics. When engaging with partners from more reserved cultures, the directness common in Anglo communication might be perceived as aggressive or rude. Understanding this cultural trait is crucial for effective cross-cultural negotiations, as it requires balancing assertive expression with sensitivity to the norms of other cultures to foster successful partnerships.

Related terms

Individualism: A cultural orientation that emphasizes personal independence and individual rights over collective group goals.

Power Distance: A cultural dimension that reflects how less powerful members of a society expect and accept that power is distributed unequally.

Assertiveness: A cultural trait characterized by a tendency to be confrontational, competitive, and outspoken in expressing one’s views.