Organizational Culture Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What does culture mainly provide for an organization?

A structure for employee promotions

Standards for what employees should say and do (correct)

A method for reducing employee turnover

A mechanism for financial growth

What characterizes a strong organizational culture?

Frequent changes in the organization’s mission

Core values that are intensely held and widely shared (correct)

A high level of diversity among opinions

Significant separation between departments

How are subcultures defined in an organization?

By the number of employees in the organization

By geographical separation from the main office

By the financial performance of the department

By common problems or experiences within a department (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a factor that inter-organizational relationships rely on?

Market share Signup and view all the answers

What is considered the dominant culture in an organization?

The primary or dominant values accepted throughout the organization Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates a weak culture from a strong culture?

The variety of opinions about the organization’s mission and values Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of shared meanings in an organization’s culture?

They guide and shape organizational behavior Signup and view all the answers

How does Zappos’ culture primarily differ from other organizations?

It values customer care and dedication above all else Signup and view all the answers

What does collectivism in a society primarily promote among its members?

Strong loyalty to extended families Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following values is typically associated with cultures characterized as masculine?

Domination Signup and view all the answers

How do cultures with high uncertainty avoidance generally react to unstructured situations?

They apply laws and strict rules Signup and view all the answers

In terms of uncertainty avoidance, which of the following describes a culture that has no aversion to uncertainty?

They encourage reduced rules and regulations Signup and view all the answers

What is a major characteristic of cultures with a long-term orientation?

Focus on saving and perseverance Signup and view all the answers

What kind of values would likely dominate in a feminine culture?

Sensitivity and empathy Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes low uncertainty avoidance cultures?

They thrive in unpredictable environments. Signup and view all the answers

What type of familial structure is typical in highly collectivist societies?

Extended families including relatives Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of universalist cultures regarding obligations?

They apply absolute concepts without regard for circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

How do particularist cultures approach obligations among group members?

By providing protection based on personal relationships. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'monochronic' refer to in cultural time perception?

A linear perception of time focusing on schedules. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common issue faced by individuals straddling the lines of universalism and particularism?

Balancing family obligations with societal expectations. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of group dynamics, what value is highly appreciated among members?

Interdependence and harmony. Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the relationship between time perception and cultural roots?

Different cultures have varied concepts of time based on history and environment. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant trait of group membership as described in the content?

Members maintain psychological distance from outsiders. Signup and view all the answers

How do universalist cultures react to personal feelings in obligations?

They set aside personal feelings for an objective analysis. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is primarily influenced by power distance in organizations?

Who has the authority to make decisions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following dimensions is associated with a short-term orientation?

Protection of personal image Signup and view all the answers

How does cultural complexity impact organizational culture?

It introduces diverse and contradictory cultural influences Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about organizational culture is accurate?

Cultural identities can vary widely among members Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of diversity in organizations, particularly in the tourism industry?

It serves as a means of adaptation and survival Signup and view all the answers

Why is it said that traditional perspectives may not guarantee survival?

They limit opportunities for innovation Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the dimensions proposed by Hofstede?

They change based on internal and external pressures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT typically influence a person’s cultural identity?

Personal choices in hobbies Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of people with a monochronic concept of time?

They focus on completing one task at a time. Signup and view all the answers

How do polychronic people typically view time commitments?

As flexible objectives that can be adjusted. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following traits is NOT associated with monochronic people?

Doing many things at the same time. Signup and view all the answers

Which cultural groups are generally aligned with a monochronic concept of time?

Nordic and German cultures. Signup and view all the answers

What behavior is typically observed in polychronic individuals?

They are committed to people and human relationships. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about polychronic people is true?

They depend heavily on context for understanding situations. Signup and view all the answers

How do monochronic people typically perceive private property?

As highly respected and seldom borrowed or lent. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common trait of polychronic individuals regarding tasks?

They often become easily distracted. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Defining Culture

Culture is a set of shared beliefs, values, and practices that define a group or organization.
Organizational culture is a shared perception among members about an organization's values and identity.
Dominant culture: Represents the core values that define an organization's personality (e.g., Zappos emphasizes customer care over speed).
Subcultures: Form within larger organizations based on department designations or geographic location, reflecting shared experiences or problems.

Service Culture

Strong cultures share intensely held and widely shared core values among employees.
Weak cultures exhibit diverse opinions about the organization's mission and values.

Cultural Dimensions

Concept of obligations:
- Universalist cultures: Apply absolute principles regardless of circumstances. Fairness and impartiality are paramount.
- Particularist cultures: Behavior depends on the situation and relationships. Personal ties and obligations are prioritized.
The concept of time:
- Monochronic: Time is a tangible resource. Individuals focus on one task at a time, value punctuality, and prioritize commitments and deadlines.
- Polychronic: Time is less tangible. Individuals work on multiple tasks concurrently, prioritize relationships, and are more flexible with schedules.
Collectivism vs. Individualism:
- Collectivist cultures: Prioritize the needs of the group over individual interests, with a strong emphasis on loyalty and extended familial ties.
- Individualist cultures: Emphasize personal achievements, self-reliance, and individual rights.
Masculinity vs. Femininity:
- Masculine cultures: Valorize assertiveness, dominance, and achievement.
- Feminine cultures: Emphasize cooperation, sensitivity, and quality of life.
Uncertainty Avoidance:
- High uncertainty avoidance: Cultures seek to minimize ambiguity and uncertainty through strict rules, regulations, and precautions.
- Low uncertainty avoidance: Cultures embrace diversity, flexibility, and tolerance for ambiguity.
Short-term vs. Long-term Orientation:
- Short-term orientation: Values tradition, social obligations, and personal image.
- Long-term orientation: Values perseverance, saving, and a focus on the future.
Power Distance: Concerns the acceptance of power inequality within a society.
Aversion to Uncertainty: Relates to a society's tolerance for ambiguity and unpredictable situations.

Importance of Cultural Diversity

Cultural differences influence organizational management styles.
Diversity is crucial for adapting to changing environments and ensuring long-term survival for organizations.
Cultural identities are complex and can overlap, creating a rich organizational landscape.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the concepts of culture within organizations, including dominant cultures, subcultures, and cultural dimensions. Understand how shared beliefs and values affect organizational identity and service culture.