Click here to learn more about Martin Luther King, Jr. day.

image: code poet

US Culture | Direct vs. Indirect Communication

How to Succeed with Authenticity

by: Grayson Leverenz

There is a lot of talk about authenticity in US marketing circles today. Consumers demand their brands of choice be authentic in their communication; they want to understand what a brand really stands for before they add it to their shopping basket. As such, the job of the marketer becomes communicating authentically.

Americans value authenticity in part because our culture embraces a direct communication style. We like people to say what they mean and mean what they say. On the CultureWizard communication scale from RW3, the US rates a 2, with 1 being Direct and 5 being Indirect. What that means for International students is that most Americans communicate in a succinct, straight forward manner. We like to get to the point so much in fact that indirect cultures often consider Americans to be rude. When you’re in class or study group meetings, please take this into consideration before you label your colleagues. Americans appreciate content significantly more than context. Most of us do not consider how or when we deliver a message because the message itself is the important point. With that in mind, a midnight email from your American teammate may be every bit as critical as a statement made in your team meeting earlier that day. Focus on the words someone says in class, in meetings and during your job search to ensure you’re receiving the correct message. If you’re unclear, ask for clarification. A good way to do this is to say, “Would you say that to me in a different way?” Or, “Would you help me understand what you meant by…”

Non-verbal cues often slide by Americans unnoticed, especially silence. Most Americans have no idea that silence indicates disagreement in many cultures. They think if a teammate isn’t saying anything, they must not have anything to add to the discussion. Identify non-verbal cues you use in professional situations, and figure out how to articulate them. For example, if you would normally place a hand on the person you’re speaking to as a way to emphasize an important point, you might want to practice saying, “The thing I find most important here is…”

We wouldn’t be having a discussion about communication if conflict didn’t come up. Although very few people in the world actually like conflict, it always seems to be present. In general, Americans consider conflict a necessary factor in business; many Americans actually consider opposing points of view essential to discovering creative solutions. When a US teammate disagrees with you, don’t take it personally. They are most likely either weighing opposing opinions in their mind, or trying to look at all options to arrive at the best answer. Likewise, if you disagree with an approach or solution, you will not insult your US teammates by voicing your opinion. Remember to be authentic and be concise, and you will be well on your way to communicating successfully during your MBA in the USA.

Special thanks to RW3 for their support of the US Culture series.

image: aeu04177

US Culture | Status vs. Balance Motivation

4 Ways to Incorporate Status into Your US MBA Experience

by: Grayson Leverenz

“What did you do before business school?” Fresh-faced 1st year MBA students answer that question at least 10 times a day for about the first full month of their MBA programs. It’s a perfectly normal way to start a conversation for American students. In US culture, what you do defines who you are. This is the essence of Status Motivation.

Let’s look at the scale for the Motivation dimension of culture. The scale runs from 1 to 5, where 1 indicates Balance motivates society and 5 indicates Status motivates society. The US ranks a solid 5. Americans are undoubtedly driven to succeed, and in few places is this more evident than in the MBA world.

Careers offer a sense of identity in this culture. Higher levels of achievement equate to higher levels of self-worth, and people derive great pleasure from professional success. Americans are goal oriented, and like to be measured against their goals for pay increases, bonuses, promotions, etc.

Here are four ways to incorporate Status Motivation into your MBA in the USA:

Socializing
Practice your elevator speech to feel comfortable telling people what you did before business school. Remember to pull out some facts that show off your status and encourage people to ask questions.

My answer to that question was, “I managed a marketing research facility at Universal Studios in Orlando. I worked with clients like General Mills, Frito Lay and Coca Cola, mostly doing competitive research or advertising tests.” Highlighting my managerial title and big name clients showed my status, and people always asked more about working at Universal Studios.

This may not feel like socializing to people that come from more Balance motivated cultures, but Americans almost always begin relationships by talking about what they do professionally.

Participating
Professors expect students to actively participate in classroom discussions. Participation accounts for up to 50% of your grade in some classes. US students feel very comfortable sharing stories from their previous jobs, and relating their experiences to the coursework.

When you’re preparing for class, pick one or two stories from your previous jobs to contribute to the discussion. When the time comes, raise your hand and share. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but your classmates will appreciate your input and respect your experiences.

Networking
In networking situations like Career Fairs or company dinners, expand your elevator speech to include what you want to accomplish during your MBA. American recruiters relate to goal setting, and respond to achievement oriented people. For example, “I’m concentrating in marketing, and pursing an internship in Brand Management for the summer.”

Interviewing
Interviewing is the single most important time to embrace the US Status Motivation. Interviewers expect you to talk about your previous job responsibilities, and highlight your achievements. They want to ensure future employees are goal oriented, driven professionals.

The idea of Status Motivation may seem very unusual for people coming from Balance Motivation societies. Developing cultural fluency will help make you a more successful global businessperson, and help you have some fun along the way!

Special thanks to RW³ for their support of the US Culture series.

image: svacher

by: Grayson Leverenz

Culture’s influence on business success fascinates me. I love studying world cultures, comparing them with my own and figuring out how to work with people. Is it best to start a meeting right on time, or to allow a few minutes for socializing first? Should I call people by their first names, or would that be insulting?

Working with the intercultural specialists at RW³, I’m proud to present US Culture, the next series of MBA in the USA™ articles. Using RW³’s CultureWizard definitions, we’ll dive into the dimensions of US culture, and explore what you can expect from your US counterparts as you pursue an MBA in the USA.

One caveat: I’m writing these articles based on the US country profile. Every person you encounter during your MBA experience will be different. Some will fit the US dimensions perfectly; others will be variations on a theme. Either way, having a basic knowledge of US culture will help immensely as you complete your MBA journey.

Google images

On July 4, 1776 the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, claiming freedom from British rule. We fought for that freedom until the end of the Revolutionary War in 1783, but we recognize the day we took a stand as Independence Day.

We celebrate our Independence with parades, fireworks, picnics and cookouts. We celebrate being American: loving our families and friends, being free and appreciating the soldiers that keep us safe.

I just finalized the menu for our July 4th cook out, and thought it would be fun to share it with MBA in the USA™ readers.

Brandon & Grayson July 4th Menu

• Hot dogs
• Hamburgers
• Potato salad
• Deviled eggs
• Corn on the cob
• Doritos
• Watermelon
• Apple pie

The beer will be Yuengling, brewed at the oldest US brewery in Pottsville, Pennsylvania.

We’ll hang out with friends, videochat with family, and watch fireworks when the sun goes down. I can’t wait!

Happy July 4th!

Click here to learn more about the history of Independence Day.

This guy’s not wearing seersucker, but oh man I love those Derby hats! (image: rellim)

by: Grayson Leverenz

Tune in to NBC at 5pm EST tomorrow for “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby. The first Saturday of May, Churchill Downs Racecourse hosts the kick off the United States Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. People travel from all over the country to attend the fancy parties, show off new spring fashions, and bet on the race.

If you’re not in the Kentucky area, you can host your own Kentucky Derby party with ideas from the Kentucky Derby Party website. Ladies, don’t forget your signature fabulous hat. Men, express your inner southern gent with a seersucker suit. Everyone, make the day a little more surreal with the help of the Mint Julep, official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

For more on the Kentucky Derby, click here.

image: woodleywonderworks

by: Grayson Leverenz

On and around Wednesday April 22, Earth Day celebrations happen around the world. Earth Day invites people to honor the beauty of nature, and encourages them to preserve our natural resources through personal action. Since its origins in the 1970s, large numbers of people have participated in local, national and international Earth Day events. In fact, 2009 organizers of Earth Day events expect this year’s celebration to attract nearly 1 billion people in 180 countries, making it the largest nonreligious event in the world.

All eyes are on the new Obama administration, and his staff takes environmental responsibility seriously. Here’s a look at the President’s plan for Energy & the Environment.

“The Obama-Biden comprehensive New Energy for America plan will:

• Help create five million new jobs by strategically investing $150 billion over the next ten years to catalyze private efforts to build a clean energy future.
• Within 10 years save more oil than we currently import from the Middle East and Venezuela combined.
• Put 1 million Plug-In Hybrid cars — cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon — on the road by 2015, cars that we will work to make sure are built here in America.
• Ensure 10 percent of our electricity comes from renewable sources by 2012, and 25 percent by 2025.
• Implement an economy-wide cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.”

Commitment from the top generates significant excitement. In addition to the government, nonprofits and even corporations are getting involved. SunChips and National Geographic partnered to create the Green Effect, “an initiative to inspire people to take small steps for big change.” They plan to award five $20,000 contributions to “people or groups that have compelling ideas for green change in their communities.” The contest starts on Earth Day. Click here to learn more and compete.

If a contest is a little out of your league, but you still want to do something to help, check out the Environmental Protection Agency’s 9 Simple Steps to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Click here for my 2008 Earth Day post which includes ways to celebrate Earth Day here in the US.

Lake Eola, Orlando, Florida (image: girlonthewire)

by: Grayson Leverenz

Brandon and I lived in downtown Orlando, Florida for three years. When we’d tell people that, they’d usually say, “Oh, I’ve never been to downtown Orlando.” To which we’d politely respond, “That’s why we live there.”

Locals in Orlando avoid most touristy places like children avoid doctors with large needles. That having been said, we know where we live, and some of the best things to do in Orlando are actually tourist attractions.

Here are 5 ways you can experience Orlando like a local. Click on each number for specifics.
1. Ride the Incredible Hulk at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Any Orlando adventure begins with the theme parks; knowing which one not to miss is the benefit of being a local. For me, Universal’s Islands of Adventure tops the list. My adrenaline skyrockets just thinking about shooting out of the gate of the Incredible Hulk roller coaster.

2. Feed your inner artist at Café Tu Tu Tango.
Café Tu Tu Tango stands out among the chains on International Drive, (i.e. the most gridlocked, touristy street in Orlando). Inspired by the lofts of Spanish artists, they serve small plate style to encourage sharing, and house local artists to demonstrate their mediums while selling their work. Locals don’t frequent I-drive, but will make the trek after indulging in a theme park day.

3. Explore Lake Eola Park.
Watching children feeding swans along the 0.9 mile Lake Eola walking path creates picture perfect moments. Top the stroll off by visiting the Eola Wine Company. You can sit outside and watch the locals cruise by as you sip on your favorite red or white.

4. Eat at Dexter’s in Thornton Park.
Walking distance from Lake Eola, back in the cute neighborhood of Thornton Park, you’ll find Dexter’s. I recommend the Cuban sandwich if you can get it; the menu changes monthly. If it happens to be a Saturday, Dexter’s hosts an excellent jazz brunch at noon.

5. Visit Leu Gardens.
Orlando’s climate welcomes tropical flowers almost year round. It’s enough to wander through the outdoor gardens, taking in the beauty of your loved ones engulfed in colorful blossoms. But, Leu Gardens doesn’t stop there. With events like “Date Night” and Jazz Strolls, they keep people coming back for more.

What are your Orlando favorites?

The Old State House on the Freedom Trail (image: wallyg)

by: Grayson Leverenz

As classes wind down and thoughts of summer holidays fill your minds, I’d like to introduce the MBA in the USA travel series. From the hustle and bustle of the Northeast to the laid back attitude of the Northwest, the US offers a lot to see and do.

Let’s kick off the series with Boston, Massachusetts. Located in the northeastern US, Boston is one of the historical and cultural highlights of the country. Brandon and I met while we were both living in Boston; so the city holds many fantastic memories for me.

Here are my top 10 things to see and do in Boston. Click on each number to link to specifics.

1. Tour the Sam Adams Brewery.
When I moved to Boston, this was the first thing I did. Brewery tours are always a good time. You learn something, and get free beer at the end. OK, they ask for a $2 donation, but all the money goes to local charities.

2. Eat a lobster roll at the Barking Crab.
Enjoying a regional specialty in an authentically local restaurant is always a travel “must.” Lobster rolls and beer at the Barking Crab fit the bill for Boston.

3. Walk the Freedom Trail.
I’m sure I’ve told you before that I’m a big nerd. As such, I can’t get enough of the Freedom Trail. Experience the birth of the USA on this 2.5 mile journey through Boston. You’ll pass some of the most historical sites in the country as well as some great shopping and restaurants.

4. Indulge in Italian food at the North End’s La Summa.
Tucked on a side street off the main North End drag, La Summa’s owner makes her pasta from scratch, a tradition very rare in this day and age. Good food, good wine and good friends, that’s what life is all about.

5. Wander around Harvard Square.
Centered around the University, Harvard Square is always a fun place to explore. Coffee shops and bookstores line the streets; an eclectic children’s bookstore called Curious George Goes to WordsWorth is one of my favorites. It’s also really cool to see the first computer ever built at Harvard University.

6. Tango by Moonlight on the Weeks Footbridge.
I’m a huge fan of dancing, and Tango by Moonlight is such a fun way to spend a summer evening. People gather on the Weeks Footbridge in Cambridge for a short Argentine tango lesson, and then dance the night away under the stars. All levels are welcome.

7. Visit the Green Monster.
No trip to Boston would be complete without a visit to Fenway Park, otherwise known as the Green Monster, the home of the Boston Red Sox baseball team. Home games happen often throughout the summer. If your schedule doesn’t work to go to a game, tours of the park are an option, too.

8. Shop on Newbury Street.
While you’re exploring Boston’s premiere shopping district, be sure to check out Trident Book Sellers, a quirky bookstore with magazines from all over the world. At the end of Newbury, veer off to Boylston Street for a sandwich at the Parish Café. The thing that makes it special is that the Parish Chef solicits other great chefs in Boston to submit sandwich ideas for the menu. As such, you get gourmet food at sandwich shop prices. Yum.

9. Have a drink at Top of the Hub.
Skip the Prudential Skywalk, and enjoy the views two floors above at the Top of the Hub Lounge. Listening to sultry jazz with the “Ultimate Vodka Martini” in hand is my idea of a perfect highpoint to a Boston getaway.

10. Laze over brunch in the South End.
The South End is worth a visit simply to enjoy the architecture, but brunch makes it truly memorable. Walking down Tremont Street opens all kinds of options for mimosas and creative entrees; Tremont 647 is one of the best.

What other cities would you like to see covered in the MBA in the USA Travel series?

The Dance. (image: Seattle Municipal Archives)

Sixty-five were invited to the dance. One will come out on top.

by: Grayson Leverenz

Louisville, Pittsburgh, Connecticut and North Carolina (wooHOO!) captured #1 seeds in 2009. Alabama State and Morehead State, both #16 seeds, received the honor of opening the Tournament with the play-in game on Tuesday, March 17th at 7:30pm EST. Regular tournament games begin Thursday, March 19th at 12:15pm EST. I’ve read in several places that the first day of regular NCAA tournament play holds the record for the highest number of employee absences during the US work year.

Get ready for March Madness!

Click here to learn more about the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

Click here to see the 2009 brackets.