Power Distance Relationship

-low power distance-

Power distance is one of the cultural dimensions theory and it defines the differences
between the groups that exist in a system. It also reflects a cultures attitude toward human
inequality and how people view the power relationships on a superior or subordinate level- and
how they manage to deal with it.
In the following essay I will try to reinterpret the internship experience Ive had, based on the
low-distance relationship criterias.
It was my first time on an internship that was actually in an advertising agency. Also, I was
recruited by one of my professors and I went with one of my classmates, which made the whole
process a lot easier. That being said, I was extremely lucky. But even so, I had completely other
expectations. I was sure that I was going into a typical work environment, where the boss is
somewhat oppressive and the others just have to obey and have no saying in the decisions that
are made. I also thought that myself and my colleague would be in a constant competition,
something that could have ruined our friendship. That was one of the first times that I was
extremely glad that I was wrong.
First of all, our professor was very understanding. I never felt that I couldnt speak my mind.
We were always encouraged to say what we thought, if we were happy with a certain situation
and if not, what bothered us. When included in a bigger group with the employees of the agency,
we were strongly advised to be honest and bring into the brainstorming our own unique ideas.
Secondly, we were never treated like some favor was being done to us or that we were
beneath them. Our sole purpose was to learn, emphasizing on our needs. We had access to a lot
of materials that really helped us, and if we wanted something we just had to ask.
The other thing that I didnt expect to discover was the way they talked to each other. There
was no pressure, no formalities, and it actually took me a while to start talking to everybody on
familiar terms, being used otherwise.
In the end, the last but not the least, the relationship between bosses and subordinates and
also ourselves was one of interdependence. They were always encouraging us to participate in
the decisions that could have an affect on us. All in all, the best thing was to see that the bosses
needed help too. They didnt create the impression that theyre superheroes and are able to do
everything. Theyre just people, like the rest of us.

The uncertainty avoidance

-low uncertainty avoidance-

The uncertainty avoidance is another theory of the cultural dimensions. Unlike the power
distance, it determines the societys tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity. Basically, it shows
to what extent a culture programs its members to feel either uncomfortable or comfortable in
unstructured situations.
I found out that the underground crust-punk movement has a low uncertainty avoidance. Its
a subculture, that means to bring all the people who love this kind of music and all its subgenres
together. Although it may not seem like it, it formed a community of individuals that sustains
itself. It generates its own magazines, bands, clubs, places to live and alternative lifestyle. I
myself am deeply involved in it because of the feeling of freedom that it gives you.
First of all, we have a few rules, and not in the standard way. Everything we do is based on
respect and equality between us. Thats it.
We do not have a big, structured way of handling things, everything is based on
entrepreneurship. The community is dedicated to the DIY attitude towards raising money for
charitable actions and mutual care for disadvantaged ethnic groups or organizing marchs that
concern all of us and bring awareness. They consist in free debates with a multitude of themes.
Not being restricted by laws and regulations, we expect more space and freedom. We do not
just stand by our principles, but we actually put them to good use.
Because its lack of restrictions, we tend to be more calm and stress-free. We do not answer in
front of authority and the lack of formality makes a very strong and sincere relationship between
all the individuals. This helps us build an easily changeable environment.
We do not judge based on clothing, hairstyle, money or your sexual preferences. The more
curios you may appear, the better. What I may perceive to be good for myself may seem
outrageous for someone else. As long as youre a polite, honest and decent human being we truly
do not care what you do in your spare time. There is no right or wrong answer, every single one
of us decides whats better for himself. The well being of a person is extremely subjective. That
is exactly the kind of message that the bands try to promote.
Although the lifestyle and the music may seem extreme, the affiliation to a group that
understands and accepts you for who you want to be is a feeling I could not experience in any
other environment.
Ciocilteu Anda, An III, Gr. 1, Publicitate