Fred's Lack Of Japanese Culture example essay topic

308 words
Staffing, Organization and Procedures: Fred Bailey did not apply for the foreign position as managing director in Japan. He was however approached by Dave Steiner, and offered promotions, pay increase and possibilities for partnership for taking the position. The speed at which the decision was made was too quickly. The family (Bailey's) made the choice to move to Japan in two days, and worse, they were sent in without pre-departure training, they did not know the Japanese culture, and did not know the Japanese language. They didn't even have time to research Japan except what was in the Encyclopedia (Black, 9.1) Bailey, as far as we can see was selected for his previous roles within the company. He was a very good consultant when working within the United States, but when he moved to Japan he experienced immediate troubles because he could not communicate efficiently with his Japanese counterparts.

Kline and Associates selected Fred and his family with the consideration of his family socially, and in a work sense. Jennifer, Fred's wife, was expecting to start work within the fashion industry now that her children were older. When moved to Japan Jennifer could not communicate with others and she could not find work. Fred's lack of Japanese culture was a large problem. He did not realize how to address the Japanese, and as such directly asked questions and tasks of them to which he got very poor responses.

Although Fred had the technical capabilities to operate the firm well, his transfer was made to quickly, and more training should have been provided. The company needs to educate Fred in how to approach problems within the organizations foreign subsidiary, and possibly have the previous managing director offer ideas on how to communicate and manage the Japanese properly.