Cultural Lens Worksheet

Cultural Lens Worksheet

University of Phoenix

Antranik Ghazarossian

November 21, 2016

Cultural Lens Worksheet

1.

China and Asia are one of the world’s largest and most powerful markets currently for any industry, especially the automotive industry and Ford was lucky enough to penetrate this market right after the economic downturn in 2008. Being able to change the type and price, and styling of their vehicles, ford was able to attract new customers and become successful in a market that was very difficult to penetrate at the time. Being able to supply electric and hybrid vehicles at a very low cost has been the main reason ford has been able to adapt and change their model and succeed in the Asian markets (Developing a global mindset, 2014).    

2.

Surprisingly, Chinese have very similar taste when it comes to cars as Americans. Freedom and luxury are words used to describe what they look for in a car. Being westernized represents status for most Asian cultures and is becoming a marketing and branding staple for ford in Asia. Luxury and mid-sized SUVS have become very popular because of the westernized taste and styling these models offer and bring to Asian markets (Developing a global mindset, 2014).    

3.        Chinas' way of doing business it totally different than that of the US. The business style and cultural differences are stricter and much more organized. Complex legal and administrative requirements make for a culture shock when it comes to China. Style of communication and relationships are key when it comes to Chinese business style. Entertaining and gifts is a large part of the Chinese culture where automotive status plays a large roll (Goldsmith, 2003).

4.        The “one size fits all” risk is far too often taken and is a mistake made by many companies. Also, cultural differences can be a risk locally just as they can be internationally.  Economic, political, regulatory, and cultural influences should all be taken into consideration when breaking into a new market. Ethics, moral, and legal issues should all be taken into consideration when going global as well and has to be key. Management diversity and making sure managerial practices and management in general is diverse and has a deep understanding of the cultural differences and values (Developing a global mindset, 2014).