The New York office of HSBC Holdings Group is the head office, and thus it acts as the source of the company’s corporate culture. The policies and processes initiated in the head office shape the corporate culture in other local offices. The local culture has a substantial influence on organisational culture since it affects people’s behaviours and beliefs, which are integral to group dynamics. The shared beliefs and customs embedded in the local culture thus change workers’ preferences, communication, working styles and other corporate culture components. Analysing cultural dimensions is essential for understanding the effects of American culture on intraorganisational group dynamics and organisational culture in the head office.
American Culture Characteristics
Using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions model allows evaluating cultural differences between nations and understanding the principles and values that make up a particular culture. America culture is characterised by low power distance, long-term orientation and uncertainty avoidance. The first dimension means that the gap between leaders and followers is generally low, and people prefer managers who are approachable and accessible, as well as those who understand them well. Short-term orientation has two effects. On the one hand, it contributes to the focus on traditions, customs and values embedded in society. On the other hand, it also highlights the desire for short-term results and achievements. Low uncertainty avoidance shows that American people tend to tolerate risks and ambiguity quite well and have a lower tendency for planning and control.
The high values in the dimensions of indulgence, masculinity and individualism also affect American culture. People in America generally have weak control over their desires and impulses, but they also value success, competition and ambition. High individualism shows that the interdependence among members of American society is low, and there is more focus on individual ideas, development and achievement.
Cultural Impact on Work Processes in NY Office
The various dimensions of American culture identified above impact corporate culture in the head office by shaping communication, working preferences and leadership. First of all, the head office in New York is likely to feature a less formal and disciplined culture than in other locations. American workers will also require less supervision since they are focused on individual achievement and success, and career is a significant part of personal development in America. As a result, employees in the head office are also likely to receive a high degree of autonomy, whereas the management will usually fulfil a guiding role rather than a controlling one. Leaders will be accessible and open to the people due to the preference for low power distance. However, innovations and suggestions will likely be studied carefully before implementation due to the overall scepticism toward long-term change.