Breaking Cultural Norms in the Workplace: Risks and Rewards

Breaking Cultural Norms in the Workplace: Risks and Rewards

Every organization has its own set of cultural norms that dictates the behavior of its employees, extending to dress code, communication channels, working hours, and how they interact with each other and clients. However, in today’s globalized world where companies operate across different countries and cultures, adhering to certain cultural norms may not be the best approach for creating a productive and inclusive workplace.

The term “cultural norms” refers to customary behavior patterns that dictate how we interact with each other and perceive different aspects of our environment. These norms are not universal and vary from one geographic region to another.

But what happens when these cultural norms are challenged or violated in the workplace? Are there any potential risks and rewards of breaking cultural norms? Let’s explore.

Risks of Breaking Cultural Norms

Breaking cultural norms can be perceived as a lack of respect or consideration for the customs and practices of others. This can lead to misunderstandings, conflict and can damage business relationships.

For example, when a Western company newly established in Saudi Arabia hires female employees and allows them to discard traditional gender-segregated facilities, it can lead to objections from local authorities and social backlash from the local community.

Another example is when an employee from a hierarchical society blatantly disagrees with their boss from an egalitarian society, it can lead to resentment, decreased morale, and productivity.

Rewards of Breaking Cultural Norms

The biggest reward of breaking cultural norms is diversity and inclusivity. We live in an era of rich cultural diversity, and therefore, creating a workplace where differences are embraced and celebrated can help to encourage innovation, creativity, and increase employee engagement.

For example, the Danish toy manufacturer Lego, which was founded on traditional Danish values, wanted to create a global community with shared values. Therefore, they chose to break cultural norms by hiring a diverse group of people from different backgrounds and worldviews.

Moreover, breaking cultural norms can also be an effective way to stand out from the crowd and differentiate oneself from others in the marketplace.

Case Study: Starbucks

One well-known example of a company that broke cultural norms is Starbucks. Back in the 90s, when Starbucks first entered Japan, many Japanese people did not even drink coffee, let alone flock to Starbucks to buy a $5 latte. However, Starbucks saw an opportunity to break cultural norms by introducing American-style coffee to Japan in a unique way. They created a cozy ambiance where people could socialize and enjoy the experience of drinking coffee. Today, Starbucks is considered a coffee staple in Japan with over 1,400 locations across the country.

Conclusion

Breaking cultural norms in the workplace is a double-edged sword that comes with both risks and rewards. Companies that strive for diversity and inclusivity while still respecting the customs and practices of different cultures often reap the latter.

Moreover, breaking cultural norms can help companies establish a competitive edge by standing out in a crowded market. The key is to understand the cultural norms of the region where you operate and use them as a starting point for creating a unique workplace culture that nevertheless respects diversity.