Posted: February 28th, 2017

What explains these findings? One explanation is that in countries with greater wealth and social security,

For the Assignment, you will conduct research on the United States and two other countries cultures consulting The Hofstede Dimensions from Chapter 5 for this exercise. Make sure to complete Hofstede’s 5 Cultural Dimensions activity in the Learning Activities area before beginning this Assignment. Then use the Kaplan library or the Internet for your additional research, and then respond to the questions below in a persuasive essay in 2–3 pages in APA format and citation style.

Please view the rubric icon below for the full Assignment details.

How do various factors of one’s job contribute to satisfaction in different cultures?

A recent study attempted to answer this question in a survey of over 49 countries. The authors of the study distinguished between intrinsic job characteristics (having a job that allows one to use one’s skills, frequently receiving recognition from one’s supervisor) and extrinsic job characteristics (receiving pay that is competitive within a given industry, working in an environment that has comfortable physical conditions) and assessed differences between the two in predicting employee job satisfaction.

The study found that, across all countries, extrinsic job characteristics were positively and consistently related to satisfaction with one’s job. However, countries differed in the extent to which intrinsic job characteristics predicted job satisfaction. Richer countries, countries with stronger social security, countries that stress individualism rather than collectivism, and countries with a smaller power distance (those that value a more equal distribution of power in organizations and institutions) showed a stronger relationship between the presence of intrinsic job characteristics and job satisfaction.

What explains these findings? One explanation is that in countries with greater wealth and social security, take concerns about survival for granted, and thus employees have the freedom to place greater importance on intrinsic aspects of the job. Another explanation is that cultural norms emphasizing the individual and less power asymmetry socialize individuals to focus on the intrinsic aspects of their job. In other words, such norms tell individuals that it is okay to want jobs that are intrinsically rewarding.