The reception of Anglo leadership styles in a transforming society: the case of American companies in Vietnam |
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Authors: | Anne Vo Zeenobiyah N Hannif |
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Institution: | 1. University of Wollongong, WollongongNSWAustraliaavo@uow.edu.au;3. Management,, University of Technology, SydneyNSWAustralia |
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Abstract: | This article examines the transfer of Anglo leadership styles in a transforming society. It aims to investigate the transferability of two American leadership styles, namely performance-oriented and participative styles, to Vietnamese subsidiaries. Utilising an exploratory case study approach, this article presents evidence of a strong acceptance of these leadership styles, and tries to ascertain whether the adoption of a humane style of leadership in line with Vietnamese traditions is a means of leaders reconciling the cultural gap. Several complexities arise from the transforming nature of the Vietnamese socio-political and economic context. Specifically, the importance of subcultures – particularly those relating to generation – is highlighted. Situational contingencies, such as the skills set of the recipient group, also emerge as important considerations. Finally, the authors call for leadership dynamism as a means of facilitating congruence and adaptability between the leadership styles used and the various contextual complexities encountered in the transfer and reception process. |
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Keywords: | American companies leadership styles transfer |
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