The Geert Hofstede analysis for Colombia
is similar to other Latin American countries where there is very
strong uncertainty avoidance, large power distance, and low individualism.
This is indicative of a society that has a high concern for rules,
regulations, and controls, is slow to accept change, and is risk
adverse. There is a high emphasis placed on close ties with individuals,
or relationships, whereby everyone takes responsibility for fellow
members of their group. There are significant inequalities of
power and wealth within the society. Colombia has one of
the highest
masculinity rankings in Latin America. This indicates that the
country experiences a high degree of gender differentiation of
roles. The male dominates a significant portion of the society
and power structure.
Colombia
is similar to many Latin American countries when
analyzing Hofstede's Dimensions.
Colombia's
highest Hofstede Dimension is Uncertainty Avoidance
(UAI) at 80, indicating the society’s
low level of tolerance for uncertainty. In an effort
to minimize or reduce this level of uncertainty, strict
rules, laws, policies, and regulations are adopted
and implemented. The ultimate goal of this population
is to control everything in order to eliminate or avoid
the unexpected. As a result of this high Uncertainty
Avoidance characteristic, the society does not readily
accept change and is very risk adverse.
Colombia has a
low Individualism (IDV) rank (13), as do most Latin
countries (average 21). The score on this Dimension
indicates the society is Collectivist as compared
to Individualist. This is manifest in a close long-term
commitment to the member 'group', be that a family,
extended family, or extended relationships. Loyalty
in a collectivist culture is paramount, and over-rides
most other societal rules and regulations. The society
fosters strong relationships where everyone takes
responsibility
for fellow members of their group
The Power Distance (PDI) ranking of 67 indicates a
level of inequality of power and wealth within the
society.
Colombia has one of the higher masculinity rankings
in Latin America (64). This indicates the country experiences
a higher degree of gender differentiation of roles.
The male dominates a significant portion of the society
and power structure.
In
many of the Latin American countries, including Colombia,
the population is predominantly Catholic
(see Religions Graph below). The combination of Catholicism
and the cultural dimensions reinforce a philosophy
predicated in the belief that there is an absolute ‘Truth”.
As Geert Hofstede explains about peoples with a high
Uncertainty Avoidance Index, their attitude is, “There
can only be one Truth and we have it.” More Geert Hofstede Details
For
dress, formality increases as you move inland.
It is important to adopt conservative business
attire inland. Suits in dark colors are preferred.
Women should dress conservatively and modestly:
a suit or dress
