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Breaking the mould

Article Abstract:

Executives often experience culture shock when taking on overseas assignments because of an overwhelming frustration with a highly different and resistant foreign corporate culture. Senior executives, in particular, are the most prone to severe culture shock since they are tasked with developing and implementing organization-wide policies within a different cultural setting. These executives are advised to keep their wits around them and remain steadfast in their decisions, not allowing their standards to be compromised by the alien environment and keep in mind that implementation will take time. It would be helpful to determine the areas where initial changes can be implemented most successfully in the shortest time possible, identify individuals who can be relied on to serve as the key support group, and ensure that proposed policies for culture change are suitable to the workforce.

Social aspects, Management, Employment abroad, Overseas employment, Executives, Culture shock

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Performance appraisals: the case against

Article Abstract:

Employee performance appraisal is a complex, troublesome process for both the appraiser and the appraised. Rarely do these two individuals have a clear, mutual understanding of the purpose of appraisals. Employers use appraisals to distinguish among employees' contributions, to plan for promotions, and to help set performance goals. Employees see the appraisal as an immediate advancement opportunity. These diverse viewpoints make mutual trust and support between the appraiser and the appraised requirements for the success of the process. Trust, support, and mutuality of purpose are very difficult to achieve in the win-lose atmosphere fostered by formal employee appraisal processes.

Human resource management, Work measurement, Employee performance appraisals, Performance appraisals, Performance standards, Job performance standards

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Close encounters

Article Abstract:

The coming together of twelve culturally different nations into a single body is a great feat. The creation of the single market, however, will not be a cultural merging. Instead, differentiation without conflict will be encouraged. The British will continue to be individualistic, the Italians will remain competitively assertive, and the Spanish will continue to avoid ambiguities and uncertainties in their lives. German moderation and search for regulated harmony will continue to play a significant role in the evolution of a superstate with members keeping their own identities.

Europe, European Union, International relations, Alliances, Alliances (Government relations), Pluralism

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