Characteristics of Slovak Culture in the Context of Bilateral Austrian-Slovak Relations

Abstract

Abstract:Objective: The main intention of the present paper is, on the one hand, to provide a summary of the characteristics of Slovak culture by applying chosen theories and models. On the other hand, we attempt to underline the significance of bilateral Austro-Slovak relations in relation to the economy or migration tendencies. We assume that, based on geographical proximity and the above stated bilateral relations, intercultural encounters are relatively frequent as well. Therefore, certain perception of Slovaks from the Austrian point of view is likely to exist. Methodology: Our work is based on relevant scientific sources, as well as on our own empirical research reposing in the analysis of an online questionnaire.Findings: Overall, findings of our empirical research may be considered rather positive, as no negative or hostile responses concerning Slovak culture were reported. Furthermore, none of the participants experienced a conflict with a Slovak counterpart that could clearly be ascribed to cultural differences.Value Added: We believe that the conclusions presented in this paper might be helpful not only for managers operating on the international level or businessmen intending to do business 82Michaela Čiefová with their Slovak partners, for scholars engaged in similar topics but also for anyone interested in intercultural communication and cultural differences.

Communication models in a foreign language in relation to cognitive style category width and power distance

“…Slovaks are non-confrontational in communication, listen well, interrupt foreigners only occasionally, and are polite, and they are more punctual than other Slavs ( Lewis, 2006 ). Slovaks lean toward dialogue-oriented cultures, similar to Italian or Arab cultures ( Čiefová, 2017 ). A high level of PDI can be explained as the state when an unequal distribution of power is largely accepted and expected in a society ( Hofstede and Hofstede, 2017 ).…”