1. Individualism: The degree of individual or group orientation Power Distance: The level of preference for equality or inequality within groups Certainty (uncertainty avoidance): The preference for risk versus structure Achievement (masculinity/femininity): The relative degrees of relationship versus task orientation. This dimension also tracks the relative masculine and feminine influences in the workplace. Hofstede’s dimensions of culture

2. Country index values range from 11 for Austria (small power distance) to 94 for Philippines (large power distance)

3. Small power distance culturesLarge power distance cultures Emphasize equal distance Individual credibility Symmetrical interaction Emphasize informality Subordinates expect consultation Emphasize power distance Seniority, age, rank, title Asymmetrical interaction Emphasize formality Expect directions Examples: Austria, Israel, Denmark, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, Sweden/Norway, Germany, Canada/United States Malaysia, Guatemala, Panama, Philippines, Arab Countries, India, West African Countries, Singapore Major Differences between Small Power Distance and Large Power Distance Cultures Source: Ting-Toomey (1999: 70)

4. Arab countries69

6. IDV and National Wealth 12 91 IDV 10 500 National Wealth * USA * Israel * Iran * Japan

8. Arab’s Culture

9. Culture of Arab: Communication Expressive Tone of Voice “Arab cultures tend to value an emotionally engaged, expressive tone of voice when important issues are discussed… According to Nydell (1996) one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of Arab communication involves the ‘display of anger’. Arabs are not usually angry as they appear to be. Raising the voice, repeating points, even pounding the table for emphasis may sound angry, but in the speaker’s mind, they merely indicate sincerity” (Ting-Toomey, 1999: 122) Overassertive Communication “An Arab feels compelled to overassert in almost all types of communication because others expect him to do so. If an Arab says exactly what he means without the expected assertion, other Arabs may still think that he means the opposite. For example, a simple “No” by a guest to the host’s request to eat more or drink more will not suffice. To convey the meaning that he is actually full, the guest must keep repeating “No” several times, coupling it with an oath such as “By God” or “I swear to God.” (Almaney and Alwan, 1982: 84 cited in Ting-Toomey, 1999: 122)