Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions: Critically Analyzing Their Significance in International Business

The introduction gives a brief outline of what the writing is about - introduce the main argument/idea, for example, just as you would introduce yourself to someone at a meeting or a function, giving a bit of a background about yourself what you have done in terms of work, or courses that you may pursued, and perhaps even what your future plans are. 

The following are guide lines only. You are free to change them, but you must focus on the following.

General background of the topics you are discussing

You can briefly say what Hofstede’s dimensions are and give a general overview of the suggestions he makes about the effect of culture on our behaviour and also on business. These include individualism/ collectivism, power distance and uncertainty avoidance

what is expected in the body of the assignment, any limitations or scope of your writing

You are allowed to use citations in introduction, however, preferably provide just one

In the body, provide headings and sub-headings for your topics you are discussing. Separate your ideas into paragraphs, start each paragraph with a topic sentence that shows what the paragraph is about>

Describe Hofstede’s cultural dimensions –  discuss four to six factors for each: individualism/ collectivism, power distance and  uncertainty avoidanceand provide citation (in-text) referencing.

Critically analyse – so look at boththe significance of these theories and also why they are not relevant or important, analyse the influence or impact these theories have on business. Are they as relevant now as they were in the past? Discuss what effect they have on business with examples from the literature. You must provide citation (in-text) referencing.

Look at Hofstede’s importance for international business, and show if his ideas are relevant.

You can give your own examples as well.

Which of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions do you agree with, explain your reasons with reference to examples and literature and show how his work has relevance to international business. Look for literature that supports your views. You must provide citation (in-text) referencing.

Which of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions do you disagree with, explain your reasons with reference to examples and literature and show how his work does not have relevance to international business. Look for literature that supports your views. You must provide citation (in-text) referencing.

Make suggestions about Hofstede’s dimensions – is his work credible, how important they are, how they could be more relevant to the modern business world, what other factors should he consider etc.. You can provide examples from the literature. You must provide citation (in-text) referencing.

You can give your own examples as well, if you can

Conclusion

The conclusion brings together the main points and summarise them.

A reminder of what the essay has argued.

A summary of the most important points made in the essay.

Speculation on future developments in the area that the essay has discussed. For example, your recommendations and suggested solutions. (Generally new ideas and citations should not be included in a conclusion)