Culture Compass India

Typically Indian!

“Yes” means yes or … maybe nein

Our Culture Compass says: A direct “no” comes across as dismissive and impolite. A little hesitation, an embarrassed look reveal more than words what the interlocutor is really thinking

What is supposed to happen will happen

Hindus believe that everything on earth is predetermined. The destiny of a person depends on the deeds in his previous life. At the same time, Indians are extremely optimistic and tolerant of other beliefs and lifestyles.

Book a tailor-made cross-cultural training to improve communication and cooperation anywhere within and beyond your borders.

Culture Compass India: Attitudes and Norms.

Family and status orientation

Indians base their lives on the well-being of their families. It is even more important than the job. At the same time they are very keen to increase their status.

Hierarchy and leadership

Everyone should behave according to their role. People with authority enjoy great respect. Employees shouls not contradict their manager.

Communication style

Indians practice an indirect communication style and avoid negative statements. Harmony should prevail. On the other hand, they love drama and big gestures.

Culture Compass India: Tips for Managers

The Culture Compass India says: Indian employees expect an emotional rather than a purely factual relationship with their manager. Give them enough attention and their loyalty will be assured. Employees have great respect for the hierarchy. This respect, paired with their fatalism, might justify a certain passivity. They are hardly used to taking initiatives. They would also rarely admit mistakes in order to save face. They wouldn't admit they can't do something but would rather tend to accept a task, even if they are not able to do it. This is because they feel they can’t say no to the manager. So, take this into consideration when assigning tasks. If you want planning and deadlines to be met, you can't avoid constantly inquiring about the status of the tasks.