Russia
Power Distance
Power Distance in Russia is very high. Russia scored a 93 according to Dr. Hofstede (http://geert-hofstede.com/russia.html). In Russia power is very distant in society and business. Russia is the largest country in the world and is centralized around their capital, Moscow. Two-thirds of all foreign investments take place in Moscow and 80% of all financial potential is generated in Moscow. The importance of ones status symbol (or role in society or business) is greatly influenced by behavior in all areas of business interactions.
Russians live based on a hierarchical standpoint. They believe no one is equal. When this standard is placed in a business situation, people tend to be more obedient. View disagree with the boss or lead in the business, despite the younger generations. People tend to ask more questions. In Russia you're not expected to take initiative in society, therefore most of the lower class in business ask more questions because they cannot make stand alone decisions. Most prefer their orders and tasks to be prioritized with detailed instructions and prefer closed ended assignments based on position and title.
Russians claim to live a collectivist lifestyle, yet contradict that lifestyle in every way. Despite their claims, they believe people should be treated differently according to their rank in society. They believe power should be concentrated at the top with a "One ring to rule them all!" point of view. They think followers should always obey their leaders without question and think influence should be based on the authority of one's position.
In business, those that hold power and are considered "at the top", should look after those beneath them. In most business settings, your attire can put you in your place. Russians pay close attention to detail in business attire. The better dressed you are and the more professional you appear, gives you more power in your decision making.
Uncertainty Avoidance
Russia scored high in uncertainty avoidance as well, with a 95 out of 100. Russians prefer to know and predict their future. They feel threatened by ambiguous situations. Most prefer preparation and detailed planning, and like to have context and background information to ensure nothing out of the ordinary might happen. Russia has established one of the most complex bureaucracies in the world,
This avoidance is characterized in business and society by structure. They prefer rules and expertise both formal and informal. They rely on security which leads to a very hectic and stressful lifestyle. Russians also encourage emotion and passion. This is viewed as a way to blow off steam. It is not uncommon for Russians to get very emotional and storm out of a business meeting. They never take risks. Risks always involve uncertainty. Instead they rely on the safety and truth of their strict laws, rules, and security measures.
Works Cited
http://www.dot-connect.com/Doing_Business_in_Russia_How_to_Understand_Russian_Business_Mindsets.html
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