Management across cultures and international communication

Management Across Cultures

How is cultural communication in Luxembourg (where Skype is headquartered) similar to that in other parts of Europe and Asia? How is it different?

The way cultural communication is similar in Luxembourg to other parts of Europe is how everyone is speaking. As they will normally, use their first language (i.e. French) to talk to most people. However, in those situations where they are communicating with someone from another country they will use their second language. This is more than likely a common dialect (such as English) that is spoken around the world. As it has become the universal language of business, with most professionals using it in some form. This is similar to many Asian countries, where a large majority of the population will speak their first language among each other. Once they begin interacting with people from other countries, is the point that they will use their second language skills (i.e. English) to interact with them. ("Japan," 2011) ("Luxemburg," 2011)

The way that Luxembourg is different in their communication is with various greetings. For example, let suppose that you are saying good bye or hello to someone, in their language (which is French). To do this there are varying ways that you will greet: total strangers, groups of people, children and friends / family. This is different from the English and other Germanic languages, which are often using less standard ways of greeting someone. ("Japan," 2011) ("Luxemburg," 2011)

When it comes to Asian countries, this can be completely different. As nations such as Japan, will often say hello and bow when they are meeting someone. While in Luxembourg, they will often shake hands and then say their greeting. ("Japan," 2011)

What kind of managerial relationships could you assume exist between Skype and 3 Mobile? Between Skype and Verizon (assuming Skype is similar to Vonage)? Justify your answer.

There is strong relationship that exists between Skype and 3 Mobile. The reason why, is because they have been offering 3 Mobile application bundled with Skype products to small, medium and large sized businesses. The fact that they are interconnected and promoted together is an indication that there is strong managerial relationship between both firms. ("Transform the way your Business Works," 2011)

At the same time, Skype and Verizon have a similar kind of relationship. This is because both companies have a shared interest, with Skype being offered on Verizon's phones. While Verizon, is able to attract Skype's large customer base. Since they are working together, this is a sign that the management of the two organizations has a strong relationship with each other. (Bernier, 2011)

What kind of negotiations has Skype engaged in to enter the North American market? How does culture play a role?

The kind of negotiations that Skype has utilized is to partner up with as many firms as possible. The reason why, is because if they can begin offering their service as an application on various networks. Then, they will begin to increase their reach inside the North American market. As, consumers and businesses can use the free applications anywhere they have a connection. Over the course of time, this helps to make Skype a more valuable application that is in demand.