An Analysis of Intercultural Business Communication Differences in US, Japan, and Germany from Cultural Dimensions Theory
Abstract

With the tidal waves of economic globalization, international business activities have become increasingly frequent. It’s extremely vital to get a better understanding of various cultures and develop the ability of intercultural communication in this modern society. This thesis mainly studies and analyzes the business communication environment as a whole in the United States, Japan, and Germany in terms of the theories of Intercultural Communication, International Business and Geert Hofestede’s four pairs of contrasting value dimensions in the work-related settings. Comparing the dominant values in America, Japan, and Germany, the thesis analysis the the different writing tone, style, and letter format in these three countries. Cross-cultural awareness brings direct economic benefits. If a company wants to find a niche and promote its product in the global market or a multinational company would like make more profit in other countries and regions, it not only should boast of superior economical, technological and managerial level, but also require a deep understanding of target country's culture..

The first part introduces the definitions of culture and intercultural business communication (ICBC), and compares the dominant values in America, Japan, and Germany.

The second part mainly describes Geert Hofestede’s four pairs of contrasting value dimensions in the work-related settings. Then it summarizes and compares the overall work environment in America, Japan and Germany which is based on the theory.

The third chapter displays the different writing tone, style, and letter format in these three countries.

The last chapter is the main part of this thesis, which shows novel and interesting business etiquette and social customs in the countries mentioned before. It includes the initial business relationship, business entertainment, gifts giving, business negotiations, public behavior and so on.

Business letter writing mentioned in Chapter 3 and international business etiquettes mentioned in Chapter 4 of this thesis may serve as a useful checklist and guidelines to businesspersons who must make cultural assessments.

Key words: Cross-cultural Communication, International Business Communication, the United States, Japan, Germany, Cultural Dimensions Theory