Cultural Value Dimensions and the Use of Time as Communication Among Business Managers in Nairobi

Abstract

This study investigated the influence cultural values have on the use of time as communication. Data was collected from Nairobi managers representing firms like Firestone, General Motors, Steadman Services and Mediplus Services limited. The study used a descriptive/ correlation research design. Sixty-four managers completed the self-administered questionnaires. Five face- to-face interviews were also conducted with the three levels of managers repre- senting the three levels of management namely upper, middle and first line. The study used Hofstede's (1980,1988) five cultural value dimensions of collec- tivism vs. individualism, masculinity vs. femininity, uncertainty avoidance, power distance and long and short-term orientation to understand the values held by managers. The data collected from the study showed that managers are both collectivists and individualists; score low on power distance, high on uncertainty avoidance, high on femininity and low on long term orientation. In addition, the data reflects the change occurring in the managerial use and view of time. It was also evident from the data that managers consider anyone arriving 5-10 minutes after the scheduled start for most meetings as late. The results also indicated that managers preferred to be informed at least 14 days earlier for most meetings, though for meetings to solve problems they expected to be informed immediately.