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Power Distance
Hofstede's definition:
Power Distance is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally.
This dimension is thought to date from the advent of agriculture, and with it, of large-scale societies. Until that time, a person would know their group members and leaders personally. This is not possible where tens of thousands and more have to coordinate their lives. Without acceptance of leadership by powerful entities, none of today's societies could run.
The degree to which inequality of distance between those in charge and the less powerful (subordinates) is accepted.
Power Distance represents the extent to which less powerful members of organizations within a culture accept an unequal distribution of power.
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In societies where there is a large power-distance (Hierarchical orientation), inequalities among people are expected and desired. There is considerable dependence of subordinates on bosses, and subordinates are unlikely to approach and contradict their bosses directly.
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In societies where there is a small power-distance (Participative Orientation), it is expected that inequalities among people should be minimized. There is limited dependence of subordinates on bosses, and there is a preference for consultation. It is possible for subordinates to approach and even contradict their bosses.
Participative Orientation
Participative Orientation Advantage:
Acceptance of Responsibility
01
All should have equal rights.
02
Hierarchy in organizations means inequality of roles, established for convenience.
03
More important to get the work done than to go through channels.
04
Subordinates expect to be consulted.
05
Manager consults with those involved and expects them to participate in the decision making.
06
Employees are expected to go to managers to report on progress and suggest approaches to problem solving.
07
Good ideas and suggestions can come from people at any organization level.
Hierarchical Orientation
