Wendy Peterson Case Study

The differences in culture and gender perception were evident in the AccountBack environment. Social standards have expansive influence in the mechanics and interpersonal connections of the AccountBack work environment. For Fred Wu and Wendy Peterson, when growing up in a specific culture, norms of behavior are taken for granted. Responses, inclination, and sentiments don’t have to be considered or explained. Additionally, when venturing into a remote society abruptly things appear changed.

Utilizing Hofstede 's cultural dimensions as a point of reference, one can assess their methodology, their choices, and activities focused around a general feeling of how society may think and respond. Hofstede was instrumental in breaking down culture

In the Wendy Peterson case, Peterson did not “click” with Wu on a personal level (Hill, Zalosh p.5), finding it difficult to read him posed a challenge that she was willing to deal with in order to leverage his standing relationships within the Chinese business community. She had a tendency to assess Wu 's demeanor towards power rather than his work execution. Peterson was impressed when Wu signed his first client (eight months later) with a contract of over $ 400,000.00. She wasn’t pleased with his outlook on authority, which posed another dark spot on his performance when he didn’t get approval from her to sale additional services to the new client. Eventually any differences were seen as a problem. This situation created tension at Account Back and an atmosphere of low cooperation towards her, a female supervisor. It appeared that Wu felt most comfortable, when necessary, dealing with his peers of the same gender as well as his clients who were male decision

Wendy has to keep in mind the cross cultural differences and find the explanation of Wu’s behavior. Also, she has to revise the psychological contract with him and assure herself that as a company his input is valued.

In order to improve the relationship with Wu, Peterson has to acknowledge his Chinese culture and try to incorporate him in the American organization. She should try to sponsor Chinese activities in Plano to have their community recognize AccountBack as a partner. This should help her connect better with Wu as well. In addition, Wu has to be respectful of the authority delivered from Peterson and be open to feedback without becoming defensive in the face of constructive feedback (or too self-effacing in the face of positive feedback) (Davidson,