4.3.3 Cultural & Social Factors

Question 1

Culture

Answer 1

The dominant set of behaviours, values, beliefs and thinking patterns we learn as we grow and develop in our social groups.

Question 2

Examples of differences between cultures

Answer 2

Calling people by first name
Give gifts
Colour implications
Holidays, language
Time differences
Local knowledge
Sense of humour
Body language

Question 3

High context cultures

Answer 3

• Establish social trust first.
• Value personal relations and goodwill.
• Agreement by general trust.
• Negotiations slow and ritualistic.

Question 4

Low context cultures

Answer 4

• Get down to business first.
• Value expertise and performance.
• Agreement by specific, legalistic contract.
• Negotiations efficient as possible.

Question 5

Cultural considerations for businesses

Answer 5

1) Different tastes.
2) Languages – Make sure that marketing messages are translated accurately and appropriately.
3) Unintended meanings – Occur when message being portrayed by the business is taken to mean something else by the potential market.
4) Inappropriate/Inaccurate translations
5) Inappropriate branding and promotion – Business uses images, symbols or language that are offensive or inappropriate in different cultures.