Table of ContentsIndividualismCollectivismHorizontal and Vertical IndividualismHorizontal and Vertical CollectivismWhat I LearnedFor managers, it is important to know the different cultures they may encounter in the workplace. The two cultures they will face are individualism and collectivism. The purpose of this article is to explain the differences between individualism and collectivism and how they can work together. Say no to plagiarism. Get Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original EssayIndividualism “Individualism means that the social framework is loose and employees prioritize loyalty to themselves and their family before loyalty to their company and their work group” (Nelson, 2013, p.20). According to Komarraju, Dollinger, and Lovell, “individualists value their freedom and autonomy and seek to improve themselves” (2008, p. 21). Individualists like to be independent rather than doing things with others. This is important in an organization because individualists will not always be pressured to join the group and they will not be afraid to express their ideas openly. “Individualists also believe that each individual should look out for themselves rather than others” (Komarraju, 2008, p.21). In an organization, this is very important so that everyone does not go with the flow. There must be individuals who sometimes question the flow to avoid mistakes. Collectivism “Collectivism means that there is a tightly knit social framework in which individual members are highly dependent on others and group decisions are valued and accepted (Nelson, 2013, p. 20). According to Komarraju, Dollinger, and Lovell, “collectivists are very interested in others and are willing to share their material and intangible possessions with them. They are deeply concerned about how they may appear to others and try not to lose face or cause others to lose face” (207, p. 22). Collectivists identify as a group rather than as an individual. This is also important in an organization because collectivists are good at working with others, which is good for organizations that require group projects. Collectivists normally go with the flow of things and do not tend to question things. Horizontal and Vertical Individualism “Horizontal individualists enjoy the freedom to express themselves and prefer to be unique” (Komarraju, 2008, p. 22). This is important because they bring individual ideas to the organization. “Vertical individualists enjoy competing with others and strive to be the best” (Komarraju, 2008, p.22). Striving to be the best is good for an individual in an organization, however, wanting to compete with others can raise challenges within an organization. Horizontal and Vertical Collectivism “Horizontal collectivists tend to identify completely with the group and feel a sense of equality. with other members” (Komarraju, 2008, p.22). These are individuals who go with the flow instead of questioning it. “Vertical collectivists are willing to sacrifice their self-interest if the authority of the in-group demands it (Komarraju, 2008, p. 22). There are also members who simply go with the flow and will change to become like the group rather than growing as an individual. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Personalized Essay What I Learned From.