Cross-Cultural Management

This course examines the ways in which cultural differences impact on the process of doing business and managing internationally. A range of conceptual frameworks are developed, including mental models and schemata as the source of cultural differences and difficulties in managing intercultural interactions. Using evidence and business practice, the course explores the nature of culture and how cultural differences impact on interpersonal interactions, intergroup interactions and the management of multi-cultural workforces (including expatriates). This course analyses the practice of management and negotiation in an international cross-cultural context, and the challenges of managing international business relationships are critically analyzed. Topics include the nature and dimensions of culture, issues relating to cross-cultural problem solving, the dynamics of multi-cultural teams, managing global teams and leadership across cultures. How culture impacts on managerial decision-making of ethical and social responsibility issues is explored.