Module 09: Inclusive Leadership – Discussion Question

Module 09: Inclusive Leadership

This module introduces the study of inclusive leadership, which is related to how we address and manage individuals from diverse demographic backgrounds. In today’s global environment, diversity is not only defined as race, gender, religion, and age, but also involves social background and cultural norms. Building on the idea of cultural dimensions, cultural clusters are useful to illustrate country-level cultural similarities and differences, which can help us understand individuals’ behaviors to effectively manage inclusiveness. This module addresses inclusiveness, culture, and leadership while evaluating how they can help increase organizational competitiveness and success. You will also explore the topics of universal leadership

Discussion Question

Question Requirements:

Culture and Leadership

You have been selected to open two subsidiaries of organization XYZ. The headquarters of the organization is in the KSA. The organization is dedicated to the production of mobile devices. One of these new subsidiaries will be located in Mexico and the other one will be located in Denmark. 

As you can see in the image below, which is from Hofstede’s Cultural Dimension Theory, there are differences and similarities among the countries. Leaders should attempt to understand these differences to create effective organizational strategies. Specifically, these cultural dimensions can help leaders determine business approaches, how to address negotiations, and can aid in creating strong management and leadership styles.

Source: Hofstede Insights. (2021). Country comparison.  https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/denmark,mexico,saudi-arabia/

In addition to Hofstede’s Cultural Dimension Theory, the GLOBE research has identified six global leadership behaviors that are considered important in different cultures. These leadership behaviors are as follows:

Charismatic/ Value-Based

Team-Oriented

Participative

Humane-Oriented

Autonomous

Self-Protective

Based on Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, briefly describe the similarities and differences between the dimensions in Denmark, the KSA, and Mexico.

Analyze how the cultural dimensions of the three countries (i.e., Denmark, the KSA, and Mexico) impact leadership styles, leadership behaviors, and the decision-making process of leaders. What factors most greatly impact leadership qualities?