Expatriates Perceptions toward Hofstede’s Indonesia Cultural Dimensions

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the experiences of expatriates in Indonesia, related to Hofstede’s Indonesia cultural dimensions. This study applied a phenomenological qualitative study and used purposive sampling to select the participants. Data were gathered using the semi-structured interview with appointments set before the meeting. The interviews were conducted on an individual basis and were recorded. Then, the data were transcribed and analyzed through coding and categorizing until sets of themes occurred. The results show that the majority of participants agree Indonesia has collectivism and low uncertainty avoidance culture. Meanwhile, the expatriates’ experiences toward high power distance dimension in Indonesia vary.

The Workforce in Indonesian Organizations: An Analysis Based Upon the Cultural Dimensions of Hofstede’s Model

“…Older people are usually more respected and valued in their environment (Mangundjaya, 2013). Indonesian people are accustomed to calling their office partners beginning with the mention "Pak" or "Bu" then followed by the first name (Irawan, 2017). As a country with a high power distance culture, Indonesian workers look forward to clear directions from their superiors like teachers and students (Wahjudi et al, 2014).…”

“…It aims to maintain their relationship. Indonesians are also accustomed to helping each other in their work (Irawan, 2017). They believe that they live in a world not alone and will always need the help of others, so they maintain mutual relations with their relatives (Mangundjaya, 2013).…”

“…In frequently, the position held by someone becomes more important than everything. This is due to the prestige owned by Indonesians (Irawan, 2017). Hidasi (2017) also shows that status and visible symbols of success are important but it is not always material gain that is the motivating force, but rather the position that a person may be holding.…”

“…Indonesians are used to not showing negative emotions when they are upset or angry and they will keep smiling and polite. Harmony of relations has become a very important thing in Indonesia (Irawan, 2017). There is a phrase that illustrates the workings of Indonesians namely "Asal Bapak Senang" or Keep the Boss Happy, meaning that if he can keep the boss happy then employees who do such things will be valued and considered as valuable employees (Sulastini, 2016).…”

“…It can also be said that Indonesia has a pragmatic culture, where people believe that truth really depends on the situation, context, and time. They are able to adapt traditions to changing situations, have a strong tendency to save and invest, make savings, and persevere in achieving results (Irawan, 2017). Hidasi (2017) shows that the longterm orientation interpreted that the extent to which a society shows a pragmatic future-oriented perspective rather than a conventional historical short-term point of view.…”