Student Name:Maaz Alam

Student ID: 27479

Assignment #5:Please read chapter # 5 “Cultural Dimensions and Dilemmas”. Answer the
following questions:

a) PoR (Point of Reflection) Question 3

b) Activity 5.2. Kindly read the activity and answer all questions at the end of the case.

Question (a)

a) 3. For cultural dilemmas in business, Trompenaars proposes the reconciliation method as

a way of dealing with opposing values. If the definition of ‘dilemma’ is taken as ‘a
situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavourable or
mutually exclusive’ ( www.thefreedictionary.com/dilemma ), to what extent do you
believe the reconciliation method can be used to resolve all dilemmas?

Answer:

The reconciliation method proposed by Trompenaars has been found to be helpful in many
cultural dilemmas in business, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While it can be useful in
some cases, it is not a panacea for all dilemmas.

The reconciliation method can be helpful in situations where the two sides of a dilemma can be
reconciled, as it allows each party to understand the perspective of the other and to find a
mutually satisfactory solution. However, it is not suitable for all kinds of dilemmas, especially
those that are deeply entrenched or where the interests of each party are diametrically opposed.
In such cases, the parties involved may be unwilling to compromise or the situation may be too
complex to be resolved through reconciliation.
Overall, while the reconciliation method can be an effective tool for resolving cultural dilemmas
in business, it is not a catch-all solution. It can be useful in some cases, but in other cases, more
creative solutions may need to be explored. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on the
specific situation at hand.

Question (b)

b) 1. After reading the case, refer to Concept 5.1 and try to identify in which of the seven
dimensions you can categorise the dilemma in question. Justify your choice.

Answer:

The case exhibits a dilemma related to the seventh dimension of the Trompenaars model of
reconciliation, which is Universalism vs. Particularism. Universalism is the cultural preference
for rules, laws, and regulations that are applied to everyone without exception. On the other
hand, Particularism is the cultural preference for taking into consideration circumstances and
relationships and adapting rules, laws, and regulations to specific cases.

In the case, Marcus is confused by the Swiss work attitude of particularism, which requires
employees to stick to job descriptions and end work at 5 PM. This runs contrary to his
experience in the US where he expected help from Heidi and understood that overtime is
required because of the time difference. On the other hand, Heidi is adamant about sticking to
her job description and ending work at 5 PM. This creates a dilemma for Marcus as he needs her
help to become proficient in his job and yet is required to stay later due to the time difference.

Question (b)

2. Using the Trompenaars’ model of reconciliation, how can Marcus and Heidi resolve the
dilemma in order to enable them to work together efficiently and effectively?

Answer:
In order to resolve the dilemma, Marcus and Heidi should focus on the underlying idea of mutual
respect. They should focus on the fact that the Swiss and American cultures both value hard
work and productivity, but approach it in different ways. Marcus should understand that
particularism is part of the Swiss culture and that Heidi is not trying to be disrespectful, but is
simply trying to adhere to the cultural norms. Similarly, Heidi should understand that Marcus is
trying to be productive and is not intentionally trying to challenge her.

They should then work together to find a compromise that is respectful of both cultures. This
could include Heidi offering to help Marcus when she can, and Marcus respecting Heidi’s need
to stick to her job description and end work at 5 PM. This could also include Marcus finding
other ways to gain the knowledge he needs, such as seeking out other resources or asking other
colleagues for help.

By focusing on mutual respect and understanding, Marcus and Heidi can work together
efficiently and effectively without compromising their cultural values. This could help them to
build a strong working relationship and create a successful working environment.