Entry-Level Training Program

I would choose option 1 and apply for the entry-level training program to work in international markets. In order to succeed in an IDP posting to an unfamiliar region or country I will apply James Lee's four-step framework to address unconscious reference to one's own cultural values, self-reference criterion (SRC). The first step is to "define the problem or goal in terms of home-country cultural traits, habits and norms". In terms of this situation, step one entails that I am familiar with my home country and its cultures. I grew up here in the United States and I have become accustomed to the culture here. Only being aware of my home country's culture is not an issue for domestic business but it is for international business. Step two is to "define the problem or goal in terms of the host culture, traits, habits and norms. Make no value judgments." In this situation, the problem is that I am unfamiliar with cultures in different countries. I don't have much experience with different cultures. Step three is to "isolate the Self-Reference Criterion influence and examine it carefully to see how it complicates the problem". The difference between step one and two is revealed that cultures can be very different from country to country. Differences in cultures can be invisible if they are not researched and hurt companies if marketing managers were to ignore them. There are different ways to think about culture and there are many diverse cultures so only knowing one will not cut it when doing business in only the cultures I am unaware of. Step four is to "redefine the problem without the Self-Reference Criterion influence and solve for the host country market situation". In the situation presented, in order for myself to become successful in this international position I will need to look beyond my self-reference criterion because I can't ignore cultural differences.

The self-reference criterion teaches us to have an unbiased perception when it comes to different cultures and this trait is needed to become successful in the job presented. I will need to open my eyes and not view things through only what I already know. By avoiding the self-reference criterion, I must append assumptions I have that are based on prior experiences and prepare myself to obtain new information about cultures and behaviors. Adaptation will be important which will not require me to abandon what I already know and to change to conform to local customs, but I will have to become aware of local customs. Also, I will have to be willing to accommodate to these culture differences which can cause a misunderstanding. When adapting to different cultures it will be important that I develop an understanding and when it exists, accommodate to differences. In business customs, the self-reference criterion is particularly effective. It is important that I am aware and have an understanding of the overseas equivalents

...