On this post we are comparing Finland and Italy. Their cultural differences and how it might be seen in public using Hofstede Insights tool. From this diagram we can see that both countries scores quite differently on six different topics which is explain underneath on every chapters. Let’s see which kind of differentials these countries have.

 

 

Power Distance = the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organisations within a country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally. *

 

Finland has quite low power distance rating. It shows us Finland has good equal rights, power is shared wider for all individuals than only one, leaders are often more likely to be called by first name 

and too much control is disliked. One good pick up is communication is direct and participative. 

 

Italy power distance has 50 points from indicator. It indicates decentralisation of power and decision-making by leader. Control and supervision are generally disliked. They have more open management style and preference to work in teams.

 

Finns is known from their equality rights and friendly management; Italy is not that far away and has its similarities, probably working in teams is more common there than Finland.

 

Individualism = the degree of interdependence a society maintains among its members. *

 

Finland is scoring quite high scores on individualism. Seems like country is more likely to be individualist society. That means it’s expecting members of society will take care of themselves and family members. Hiring and promoting is based on merit only, management is the management of individuals, employee has contract to employer only on mutual advantages. 

 

In Italy the indivualism is high, and it’s more ‘me’ centered. High individualism won’t mean too much loneliness, italians have antidote for it and its family time. Route to happiness comes from personal fulfilment, its seen-on work and family time. Family traditions has big meaning in life, and it’s part of fulfilment. 

 

If we go deeper on this one, Finland society still expect more from society structures in individualistic parts than Italians. Maybe there is more to learn on this part for Finns, and not always relay on that groups of non- family individuals will be there for you. And find the fulfilment from your closest surroundings and needs. 

 

Masculinity = The fundamental issue here is what motivates people, wanting to be the best (Masculine) or liking what you do (Feminine).*

 

On masculinity scale finland is quite feminine country. In general opinion consensus, valuing equality, solidarity and good quality of working environment has main focus. Communication is based on negotiation, compromises, supportive managament and decisions are made by involvement. Free time and flexibility on working schedule has been regonized as well being. 

 

We can see Italy also scores highest points from masculinity comparing its level to 

Finland. Winning is important in life, and it’s taught from early age. Competition in work can be very strong and success is shown like by material desires. In some parts. 

 

On masculinity scale finns tend to lean towards taking care of everyone, even when having competition. Not like italians who tend to go winning when there is a chance. 

 

Uncertainity avoidance = he extent to which the members of a culture feel threatened by ambiguous or unknown situations and have created beliefs and institutions that try to avoid these.*

 

Finland has quite medium high score on uncertainity avoidance, which comes from avoiding uncertainty in society structures. Unorthodox behavior and ideas are bit not seen in society, because in this kind of society structure there is kind of emotional need for rules. It’s driven by facts for example time is money, be busy and work hard. Innovation might seem to be shut down for it may give space for uncertainty in structures. 

 

Italy has high points on uncertainty avoidance level as well. But now these levels start to battle with masculinity. Too many rules and self-orientation might have its difficulties to really having the possibility to have individual approach on life. It’s been seen stressful and difficult. Italians have made their own rules to release the stress by having lots of coffee breaks and enjoying long meals. Also, expression level on daily basis is high also the body language to relief.

 

This is first scale where Italians really start battle with their individual culture. In my belief Italians could easily relay on lower scores on this topic to work better as society. Finland scores the logical Finnish mid-way on this , and seems to be quite precise score to describe Finnish structure of society. 

 

Long term orientation = how every society has to maintain some links with its own past while dealing with the challenges of the present and future. *

 

In long term orientation Finns seems to be respecting traditions, saving the future is not in their best interest and quick results is admired.

 

Long term orientation Italy will be seen more adjustable country.  Lot of things depends on very much on situation, context, and time. Ability to adapt, save and invest. Society structure also lives on that.  

 

Long term orientation both of them scores well describing points in this indicator. 

 

Indulgence =  the extent to which people try to control their desires and impulses.*

 

Indulgence in finish culture comes out from enjoying life and having fun. Havin positive attitude and tendency toward optimism. Important is leisure time, act as they please and have free will on their money usage.

 

Italians has low points on indulgence compared to Finland. Leisure time is not having as much emphasis and desires of free time has different meanings than Finland.

 

Finland gets points which is really good for individual growth, and which would probably be that Finnish until you really have lived here.

 

In general I would say if these two cultures will be combined, we would probably have ideal society with lot of fulfilled individuals who has good social structure behind them on their needs.

 

 

Sources:

https://www.hofstede-insights.com/country-comparison/finland,italy/ 

 

(*)Loaning meaning of the indicator topic straight from Hofstede Insigtht.