East vs. West - 5 Different Working Cultures

Working in different country, or working with foreigners, can be a new and exciting experience. When you do, it is important to remember the cultural differences that exist between your countries, especially if it is between eastern and western countries. Of course, east and west are very broad terms. However, there are still some similar qualities that can be found in each respective side. To be able to have a good working relationship with people from other countries, first you must understand their culture. Here are the top five different working cultures between east and west.

Communication

Pleasantries are an important aspect of eastern societies. You have to be careful in how you convey your opinion, so that it does not seem overly aggressive and ending up offending someone. You have to be able to read between the lines because what people say often does not reflect what they think or feel. This is because being indirect is seen as being polite and respectful. The concept of ‘saving face’ is true for many eastern countries. That is why, even valid criticisms are given in private and never in public.

In contrast, people in western countries value being frank and outspoken. Speaking bluntly and being honest are not sign of disrespect but just a statement of how it is. You are expected to point out mistake immediately when you notice it and to accept feedbacks with good graces and not as personal attack.

Confrontation

Keeping harmony in the workplace is essential in eastern companies. You have to be careful not to step on anyone toes and avoid butting heads with your coworker. If you are seen as someone who started a confrontation, even when you have a justifiable cause, there is a high probability that you would also be viewed in a negative light. Unless it is an extremely serious problem, avoidance seem to be the number one choice of action in many cases.

Western countries, on the other hand, seem to favor confronting a problem head on. Arguments and disagreements are best solved quickly and directly, so that is does not fester and become worse with time.

Hierarchy

The relationship between superior and employee are clearly defined in the east. Your position in the company greatly dictates your action and how you treat others that occupy higher positions than you. Not showing the proper degree of respect when interacting with a superior can even be considered as a fatal mistake. There is usually a standard etiquette on how to act and speak in a respectful manner while in the workplace. Using titles are a must, and calling your boss with just their name is considered to be something extremely outrageous.

We can feel the different working cultures in the western countries, where many leaders prefer more of a ‘horizontal’ relationship, where they present themselves as a member of a team and not as someone above them. They would try to make their employees to feel as relaxed and at ease as possible around them, and keep things laidback. It is common to refer as your boss with their first name and to greet them casually, just as you would greet your other coworker.     

Private life

Going out together for dinner or other entertainment after office hours is something that is to be expected when working in eastern countries. It is seen as an opportunity to converse with your colleagues in a more personal manner, something that you cannot do in the company. It is normal for your boss or coworker to ask personal questions, even intrusive one, because being in the same company is considered the same as being in one big family.

Western people, however, tend to value their privacy. They clearly separate their private life from their work life, and blurring the lines between the two is often considered as unprofessional behavior. Understanding these different working cultures can help you in knowing where to draw the line. 

Punctuality

With Japan being the most notable exception, eastern societies are more likely to be lenient in treating tardiness. It is not uncommon for meetings to be derailed and ran longer than the scheduled time because of unrelated conversations and small talks.

Although work environment in the west has the tendency to be more relaxed, it is important to be punctual in everything you do. Business meetings only include what is relevant to the task at hand and follow the established schedule.

Interacting with and learning these different working cultures can bring on some unique challenges to your work life. It can be as exciting as it is frustrating. However, the experience will definitely help you grow to be more proficient in your field of work and open doors to new opportunities.