Korea Facing: Week of September 2, 2012

By Don Southerton, BCW Editor

Korea Facing is the title not only for my latest book in progress, but also for related seminars, coaching, and workshops we are offering Fall 2012 and into 2013. This week’s update shares topics from the book and seminars that we will discuss over the next few weeks, including:

1. K-Lobization—The outreach of Korea’s unique management style and corporate culture across international markets, especially among subsidiaries and branch offices.

2. Ju Jae Won—Another name for the Korean expats assigned to a host country to support their overseas operations.

3. Hierarchy-- rank and title within the mother and subsidiary organization and its impact on day-to-day business operations.

4. Culture Shock--the cross-cultural acclimatizing that occurs when an individual is assigned to a different geographic location.

5. Generations-- South Korea’s age groups influence their business culture, so   knowing the differences in the mindset and values of recent Korean generations is valuable.

6. Planning and Decision-making— In a hierarchical system orders come from senior management, plus their requests override other plans and thus schedules are often revised at short notice.

7. Protocols and Culture---Korean culture has norms that dictate social interactions—especially during initial introductions and meet & greets.  Cultural differences also impact communications style, decision-making, discussions, and presentation style.

8. Expectations—Most often the issues that surface center on managing expectations. Usually each side has legitimate demands. For example, the Korean side needs answers and information ASAP, while the US/ western side procedures take days to compile, often from number of sources....


About Bridging Culture Worldwide
When Fortune 500 companies, top Korean Groups, leading international law firms, and elite consultancies, such as Bain and Monitor, look for Korean-facing business strategy, coaching, and advice—they turn to Bridging Culture Worldwide and Don Southerton.

With over 35 years’ experience, Don Southerton is the definitive authority on Korean-facing global business--from automotive, golf, and QSR sectors to New Urbanism and Green technology.  When problems and challenges surface in development, launch, or fulfillment, we provide sound solutions and comprehensive strategies.