EMPLOYEES who are afraid to challenge their bosses may not go far in the company - if the employer is an organisation with Western values, that is.

Asian employees have to break their hierarchical mindsets and be more confrontational with their bosses if they wish to succeed in an organisation with western values, said Human Resources Online.

The Asian value of humility and a collective work attitude make Asian workers less likely to confront conflicts or challenge their superiors, said Mr Philip Merry, a trainer on cross cultural partnership and team dynamics.

'It is important to remember that not all Asians are the same nor are all Westerners, but a general rule of thumb is that many Westerners have non-hierarchical mindsets and Asians show more respect for hierarchical values,' he said.

'While I feel that Western cultures can learn a great deal from Asian values of humility and respect for elders, if you are an Asian working for a boss whom you fundamentally disagree with and yet you keep quiet, it is not always going to help your career.'

His advice for employees' Adjust their work style if they want to progress in a company helmed by bosses who value individualism and outspokenness, said Human Resources Online.

Mr Merry added that most Asians shy away from bragging about their capabilities as they assume that their superiors are able to see their performance.

But when compared with colleagues who are outspoken and good at selling themselves, the humble Asians will be passed over for promotion, he said.

Asian workers also find it hard sometimes to separate criticism of performance from criticism of the person. 'I would advise individualistic Westerners to learn to tone down their style when working with Asians and I would advise Asians to adjust their style too,' said Mr Merry.

Being more outspoken may be difficult initially, he added, but it is a new behaviour that would eventually pay dividends in the global workplace.

Related link:

» Asian workers more outspoken now

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