What is the difference between a monochronic and polychronic culture? How do such cultural differences affect business practices for international firms?
Answer: Cultures such as those in Northern Europe are called monochronic. People prefer to work sequentially, such as finishing with one customer before dealing with another. Conversely, polychronic Southern Europeans are more comfortable working simultaneously with all the tasks they face. Such cultural differences affect the degree of multitasking with which people are comfortable. International companies and individuals must evaluate their business and personal practices to ensure that their behavior may fit with the culture.