Introduction
Kicevo, Macedonia is located in the Balkan Peninsula and is one of many divisions of what was former Yugoslavia. Neighboring countries include Albania, Greece, Kosovo, Serbia and Bulgaria. This portion of the world has seen great changes in geography and culture for thousands of years. It was once a part of the great Roman and Ottoman empires, experienced occupation by the Axis Powers during World War II and has been a hot bed for changing political ideals and civil wars. In 1993, Benny Ballahzi left Macedonia for the United States in search of better opportunity. According to Mr. Ballazhi, this is common. Ballazhi stated, “Everyone is looking to head west to places such as Sweden, Italy, and of course the United States.” Today, Benny Ballazhi is a successful restaurant owner in the Decatur, Illinois area. Ballazhi attributes much of his success to following basic principles such as hard work and determination, to which Ballazhi believes, …show more content…
This indicates that there is an understood order. Using the work place as an example, employees expect to take direction. Additionally, the boss will often carry out dealings without much input, if any, from subordinates. Power distance is also demonstrated within the family, where the breadwinner, bears ultimate responsibility and makes all final decisions. (Score: 90)
Individualism
In this area of the world, the group is far more important than the individual. This is demonstrated well within the culture’s family structure. Mr. Ballazhi said, “Family is very important, it is important to take care of each other.” It was made clear that this was not only reserved for immediate family, but extended family as well. If one member of the family is suffering, than the rest hold some accountability. This is consistent with Hofstede’s value tool and affirms Macedonia’s status as a largely collectivist society. (Score:
Kicevo, Macedonia is located in the Balkan Peninsula and is one of many divisions of what was former Yugoslavia. Neighboring countries include Albania, Greece, Kosovo, Serbia and Bulgaria. This portion of the world has seen great changes in geography and culture for thousands of years. It was once a part of the great Roman and Ottoman empires, experienced occupation by the Axis Powers during World War II and has been a hot bed for changing political ideals and civil wars. In 1993, Benny Ballahzi left Macedonia for the United States in search of better opportunity. According to Mr. Ballazhi, this is common. Ballazhi stated, “Everyone is looking to head west to places such as Sweden, Italy, and of course the United States.” Today, Benny Ballazhi is a successful restaurant owner in the Decatur, Illinois area. Ballazhi attributes much of his success to following basic principles such as hard work and determination, to which Ballazhi believes, …show more content…
This indicates that there is an understood order. Using the work place as an example, employees expect to take direction. Additionally, the boss will often carry out dealings without much input, if any, from subordinates. Power distance is also demonstrated within the family, where the breadwinner, bears ultimate responsibility and makes all final decisions. (Score: 90)
Individualism
In this area of the world, the group is far more important than the individual. This is demonstrated well within the culture’s family structure. Mr. Ballazhi said, “Family is very important, it is important to take care of each other.” It was made clear that this was not only reserved for immediate family, but extended family as well. If one member of the family is suffering, than the rest hold some accountability. This is consistent with Hofstede’s value tool and affirms Macedonia’s status as a largely collectivist society. (Score: