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Power Distance

• More interaction exists between the boss and his/her employees.
• The boss is more democratic, and freely delegates responsibility.
• It's okay to disagree with or question the boss.
• The boss sees himself/herself as one of the group.
• One may choose to join groups, but group membership is not essential to one's identity or success.

Example: Australia and the U.S. are low power distance cultures.

High Power Distance Cultures:

• Greater distance exists between the boss and subordinates.
• Power is centralized and generally is not shared.
• The boss does not delegate responsibility or reward initiative.
• The worker does not disagree with or question the boss.
• The boss sees himself/herself as on one level, workers on another.

Example: Russia and China are high power distance cultures.