National Culture and Influences on Leadership: A Case Study of CBRE in Sweden

Abstract: Abstract Title: National Culture and Influences on Leadership: A Case Study of CBRE in Sweden Level: Final thesis for Bachelor Degree in Arts/Science and Business Administration Authors: Chatzidakis, Emmanouil & Stenström, Dennis Supervisor: Ehsanul Huda Chowdhury, PhD Date: 05.06.2014 Aim: The purpose of this study is to examine the influences of national culture on leadership based on Power Distance, Masculinity versus Femininity and Uncertainty Avoidance within CBRE in Sweden. Method: Explorative interviews with five top managers from CBRE in Sweden was performed and a questionnaire was sent to the staff. To achieve an understanding of national culture and influences on leadership, we have based our study on the scientific philosophy of hermeneutics. Findings and conclusions: Managers from CBRE in Sweden share many views on leadership that include the importance of teamwork, cooperation, open communication and negotiation. They motivate employees by making them feel important, integrating them into the group and give them responsibility to handle difficult situations in the way they feel is best. The level of stress at work varies between managers but they all tries to handle it by being creative and enhancing performance by prioritizing their workload. Family, friends and physical exercise are also important factors as to reduce stress. Practical implications: This paper gives an insight of the national culture of Sweden and influences on leadership within the real estate service industry. Originality/value: This paper does not give a complete picture of the situation in all industries in the whole country, since we have only focused on one company, CBRE, which operates within the real estate service industry. It can, however, contribute as a guide mostly for managers and employees from other countries who are interested in Sweden’s national culture and business environment. It may also be useful for companies that are planning to expand to Sweden so they can see how leadership looks like. Suggestions for further study: National culture and influences on leadership within larger companies can be studied, as well as on mergers and acquisitions and implications of national culture on a foreign employee or manager. Key words: Internationalization, National Culture, Leadership, Real Estate Service Industry,