Do We See Eye-to-Eye? Implications of Cultural Differences for Cross-Cultural Management Research and Practice

Abstract

Although observation is a common research technique, little attention has been given to the effects of culture on observer judgment making. These researchers argue that consideration of cultural differences is critical when applying observation techniques in cross-cultural research as well as in the applied contexts of performance appraisal and international management. A laboratory study was conducted to examine the potential for discrepancies in observer judgment making among Asian American and Caucasian American subjects. The results of this study affirm the importance of cultural influences in research and management.

Key Words:

• culture observation
• management research and practice