THIS AD WOULD FAIL IN…
A U.S. tech startup launches an ad saying:
“Speak up. Challenge your boss. Disrupt everything.”
What is ignoring hierarchy / high power distance norms?
In The Office, Michael Scott often tries to use relationship behavior, but lacks this crucial leadership trait.
What is self-awareness or adaptability?
A global beauty brand runs an ad showing public criticism of a team member as “radical transparency.”
What is violating face-saving norms?
In How I Met Your Mother, this character believes charisma and confidence are enough to lead, but consistently ignores emotional intelligence and adaptability.
Who is Barney Stinson?
A Canadian consulting firm pitches only ROI numbers and data-heavy slides to a Latin American client, without relationship-building beforehand.
What is using task-based persuasion in a relationship-first culture?
In Suits, Harvey Specter persuades through dominance and logic. In a relationship-first culture, this style could be interpreted as this.
What is arrogance or disrespect?
An international CEO sends a blunt email:
“This deadline was missed. Fix it.”
What is an intent–perception gap / failure of cultural translation?
Marshall Eriksen moves to a highly hierarchical law firm and continues addressing senior partners casually. What cultural error is he making?
What is ignoring power distance norms?
A luxury brand runs an ad emphasizing individual achievement and “standing out from the crowd.”
What is misalignment with collectivist values?
In Modern Family, Gloria’s passionate, emotionally expressive style might be interpreted as “too intense” in a low-context, task-first culture. This shows that leadership behavior is filtered through what?
What is cultural perception?