Author Question: Define parochialism. Discuss why parochialism is a problem for U.S. managers and discuss reasons why ... (Read 136 times)

formula1 · **on:** Jul 7, 2018

Define parochialism. Discuss why parochialism is a problem for U.S. managers and discuss reasons why it is important to overcome parochialism in today's business environment.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

List and discuss the three attitudes managers might have toward international business.

What will be an ideal response?

taylorsonier · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 7, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: Parochialism is typically defined as viewing the world solely through one's own eyes and perspectives. People with a parochial attitude do not recognize that others have different ways of living and working. Parochialism is a significant obstacle for managers working in a global business world. If managers fall into the trap of ignoring others' values and customs and rigidly keep on applying an attitude of ours is better than theirs to foreign cultures, they'll find it difficult to compete with other organizations around the world. Therefore, it is important to overcome parochialism in order to succeed in today's global environment.

Answer to Question 2

Answer:
a. Ethnocentric attitude - This is the parochialistic belief that the best work approaches and practices are those of the home country. Managers with an ethnocentric attitude believe that people in foreign countries do not have the needed skills, expertise, knowledge, or experience to make the best business decisions as people in the home country do. They don't trust foreign employees with key decisions.
b. Polycentric attitude - This is the view that employees in the host country know the best work approaches and practices for running their business. Managers with a polycentric attitude view every foreign operation as different and hard to understand. Thus, these managers are likely to leave their foreign facilities alone and let foreign employees figure out how best to do things.
c. Geocentric attitude - This is a world-oriented view that focuses on using the best approaches and people from around the globe. Managers with this type of attitude believe that it's important to have a global view both at the organization's headquarters in the home country and in the various foreign work facilities. Major issues and decisions are viewed globally by looking for the best approaches and people regardless of origin.