Start by reading and following these instructions:
Create your Assignment submission and be sure to cite your 3-4 sources, use APA style as required, and check your spelling.
Assignment:
Signature Assignment Title: Module 8 Signature Assignment
Assignment Description/Directions:
Remember to submit your work following the file naming convention FirstInitial.LastName_M01.docx. For example, J.Smith_M01.docx. Remember that it is not necessary to manually type in the file extension; it will automatically append.
Start by reading and following these instructions:
1. Quickly skim the questions or assignment below and the assignment rubric to help you focus.
2. Read the required chapter(s) of the textbook and any additional recommended resources. Some answers may require you to do additional research on the Internet or in other reference sources. Choose your sources carefully.
3. Consider the discussions and any insights gained from them.
4. Create your Assignment submission and be sure to cite your sources, use APA style as required, and check your spelling.
5. Do not just answer the questions. You should be able to explain the logic behind your answer and if applicable point to a credible source to support your position, even if it is just the textbook. Invest your time wisely, giving more time to the complex answers in order to ensure that you demonstrate that you truly understand the answer. Typical assignment submissions should be roughly 3,000-3500 words in length. Shorter compelling answers are fine. Answers with needless filler will be marked down. In addition, submissions should include a title page and reference page in APA style.
Signature Assignment
This is a signature assignment for the School of Business and Technology BS in Business Administration students. Store your submission with any grading feedback in your Professional’s Portfolio and use the following tag:
XXX Tag: XXXX-XXX
Assignment:
1. What is the difference between a gift and a bribe? As a representative of your company, how would you respond to an offer of a questionable bribe from an international government or business professional? As it relates to bribery and international business, what are your thoughts on the following saying “When in Rome do as the Romans?” Note: students are expected to use references beyond the textbook in order to assist them with their answers.
2. Does globalization result in cultural and economic homogenization (alikeness) through a heightened emphasis on consumerism, or is this an exaggeration? Explain and defend your position. Note: students are expected to use references beyond the textbook in order to assist them with their answer
3. Do you believe Facebook, MySpace, and other such social networking sites are, will, or can promote more commonly shared values of people across cultures—knowing that some countries have their own such Web sites in their language? Explain.
4. Explain the differences in perception and experience with regard to moral issues for (a) a host country viewing an MNE and (b) an MNE viewing a host country. Which perspective are you more inclined to support or sympathize with? Why?
5. Offer an example of and explain why one of your own values or an ethical standard you deeply believe in and follow might conflict with a different cultural or regional ethic in, for example, China, Russia, the Middle East, or the U.S. (if you are from a different culture). How flexible would you be, or not be, in negotiating one of your core beliefs in another culture? What would be your constraints on being flexible and changing your value-based position? Explain.
6. Evaluate and argue different sides of this statement: “McDonaldization is not a ‘bad’ thing. Everyone has a choice of what and how much to buy and consume. People are lucky to have a low-cost food option like McDonald’s.” Note: students are expected to use references beyond the textbook in order to assist them with their answer
7. You (Jane) are a 29-year-old single woman who has an MBA and has been working in your current marketing position for a year. Your firm recently opened a new pilot branch in a somewhat remote Russian location. The CEO of your company believes there are real growth opportunities for your firm’s products in that region and also wants visibility there. The company has decided to launch a small office there for visibility as well as to introduce the product. You are one of the most outgoing and talented marketing professionals in your firm. It is believed that you’ll make a positive impression and represent the company well.
A small community of American business professionals there will assist you. Country values there are very different from what you are accustomed to. You overhear a discussion between two of your male colleagues who were recently in that country completing arrangements for the office. One says, “Jane’s going to have some interesting challenges with the men she has to do business with. . . . It’s like the Wild West.” The other answered, “Yeah, she’s got some real surprises coming.” Your research suggests that country laws and norms on issues you take for granted (like women’s rights and sexual harassment) are not well defined.
You have a conflict over wanting to advance with your company but not wanting to take this assignment. You are aware that the CEO has his mindset. In fact, you’ve already had a discussion expressing your concerns and fears. He brushed your issues aside when he told you earlier, “Jane, try it. You need the international exposure and experience.” The second time you approached him with your concerns, he blurted out, “Look, Jane. I understand your concerns, but this is important to me and our company. There are some people there who can help you. I know it’s going to be a challenge. But after a couple of years, you’ll thank me.” You still don’t feel right.
1. What do you do, and why?
2. If you do decide to go, what specific preparations should you make?
3. If you decide not to go, draft out the dialogue you would have with your CEO.
Total Point Value of Assignment: 500
