Cross-Cultural Management: Establishing a Czech Benchmark

One of the more frequently used terms to describe international business in the twenty-first century is globalisation. To many, this implies an easier access to foreign markets and a harmonisation of business practices across the planet. However, to some this movement threatens indigenous values, norms, and traditions. Cross-cultural management has long been perceived as an important branch of international management. In the past, it has provided the community with insight as to why social and commercial processes may differ from culture to culture. The scholarly articles pertaining to the Czech Republic lack substance. Even the Hofstede cultural dimensions for this country are based on replications or estimates. Therefore, this paper investigates the current state of Czech cultural dimensions. Based on the qualitative research consisting of literature review, field observation, and surveys, the hypothesis „Hofstede cultural dimensions attributed to the Czech Republic require substantial review and re-evaluation on a ‘culture-alone’ basis“ is confirmed. The paper discusses attained results from seven perspectives namely, Equality; The self, the group, and others; The Macho and the Virgin; Risks and distrusts; Looking towards the future; Language and communication; and Spirituality and belief. The first five equate to Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, language and communication as well as spirituality and belief being a hybrid of both Hofstede and Hall. Furthermore, five other cultural aspects are also discussed in the paper – Uncertainty Avoidance; Masculinity/Femininity; Individualism-Collectivism; Power Distance; and Language and Religion. The paper establishes a Czech benchmark, which is open to discussion and may be used in both theory development and practice.