Taiwan and Thailand- cultural differences at work.

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to identify, from a Taiwanese perspective, the cultural differences experienced by Taiwanese business owners/managers who live/work in Thailand. It is important to understand the differences in cultural values before moving into a new country. The qualitative research methodology has been used in this paper. Interviews were conducted to define in depth the cultural differences perceived by Taiwanese business owners/managers who live/work in Thailand. The interviewees had at least three years of work experience in Thailand along with work experience in Taiwan, which served as their cultural background. They clearly provided examples of differences and similarities between Taiwan and Thailand’s work culture. The interview results showed four aspects of cultural differences: 主動 Zhu-Dong (Initiative) vs. Sabai-Sabai (easy-going attitude), 危機感 Wei-Ji-Gan (crisis awareness) vs. Jai Yen Yen (take–it-easy attitude), 面子Mian-Zi (Face), Humane management. And two other aspects which were similar in both cultures were: Hierarchy and 關係 Guan-Xi (Relationship).