Organizational Procedures for Setting Business in Korea

The process of developing business procedures in Korea for our organization requires the consideration of many factors. Developing a cultural profile is the first step in deciding how to conduct business in Korea. Managers have to consider the impact of traditional values in Korean daily life. To a certain degree, obedience plays a large part in the management of business in Korea. Etiquette plays a major role in daily operations and business functions. To set up procedures within our organization in order to allow colleagues from varying cultures to participate in decision-making processes despite potential cultural conflicts is possible but challenging in Korea.

The Korean culture is heavily influenced by Confucian or traditional values. Not readily accepted is change because their society is built on their traditions. Family is very important, therefore making relationships with colleagues key to be successful in business. Koreans believe someone should be a friend first and a client second. Managers have to keep this into consideration in order to ensure colleagues and clients create a healthy relationship.

A consideration that managers have to take into consideration is the importance of obedience to supervisors in Korean ran businesses. Koreans have strong supervisor/subordinate relationships. This relationship plays a large part in their everyday life and it plays a large role in daily business operations. Korean managers expect their workers to accomplish each task assigned without any questions. It is important that business managers consider this when conducting business to avoid any conflicts. Expend extra time to build a strong team and ensure all members feel integrated to the team. Once the team concept is accepted, managers must ensure the entire team feels included in the decision-making processes. The expectation is that managers take the personal feelings of their workers into consideration when making decisions. This is not so readily practiced in America, but is critical to be successful in Korean business.

Etiquette also plays a large role in conducting business in Korea. Greetings are a very important part of the business meeting. Knowing to meet and provide a slight bow and handshake displays a sense of respect to the business partner. Eye contact is also very important and a necessary practice to maintain the respect of the business counterpart. Addressing business partners by their last name is a sign of respect. Providing business cards and exchanging gifts are an important part of establishing a relationship with the business partner. Being punctual and setting up meetings at convenient times for the business partner is also establishes a good business relationship.

Ultimately, gaining a better understanding of the culture is beneficial in order for our organization to allow colleagues from the Korean culture to participate in the decision-making processes without cultural

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