Tag Archive for Donald G Southerton author

Everything Korea, October 10 Episode: Just Back from Seoul

October 10, 2016 Global Business Comments Off on Everything Korea, October 10 Episode: Just Back from Seoul

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I’m just back from Seoul. With “Meet and Greets,” more than once casually bumping into few longtime friends in the hotel and at the airport, a number of high level presentations, a VIP tour of Hyundai Card’s two newest venues—the Music Library and the Vinyl and Plastic retail store, and an even a day trip to PyeongChang, home to the upcoming 2018 Winter Olympics, the days and nights stayed busy.

Amid all the travel, I study the corporate Korean workplace.  It’s the sub-culture within the different Groups and their affiliates—nuances– that capture my attention.  Marketing teams, for example, dressing ever more casual, ties less and less commonplace, meetings in coffee shops adjacent to corporate offices, not to mention many teams working Remote in the cafes with easy to access Wi-Fi.

Still often we see some constants—older senior executives in their company car, usually black Mercedes, BMWs or Hyundai Equus (now Genesis G90, but badged in Korea as EQ 900), the exchange business cards, although less formal in how they are presented, the dominance in the local market of the top Groups—Samsung, Hyundai, SK, LG and Lotte, as well as annual strikes underway—on this trip Hyundai Motor Company’s union and the subway and railway unions.

All said, what continues to linger in the workplace is rigid canons in the Day to Day — hierarchical top down management and communications, risk avoidance and zero-sum mindsets, and although companies boasting their globalism, few wanting to move beyond the standard response “That wouldn’t work in Korea” when international teams seek to share their global approach to business.

Of course this is where I come in… giving perspective, providing context, sharing workarounds and facilitating change.

Care to discuss?

My personal assistant Stacey at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

 

Everything Korea, October 3 Episode, The HOW

October 3, 2016 Uncategorized Comments Off on Everything Korea, October 3 Episode, The HOW

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A respected colleague shared their thoughts on last week’s commentary “Hit the Target”—noting is was “a timely topic!” “… Especially as we enter the fourth quarter…”

Several readers also chimed in– lamenting that local leadership and teams receive little guidance in HOW to hit the target.

To add some context, HOW has considerable to do with Korean workplace culture norms. Leaders give directives, and teams execute in a top down manner. In some cases, well meaning leaders withhold detailed instructions to empower their teams to work through it themselves…. In other cases, some in less progressive management feel there are being paid to do a job…. And teams need to struggle like they themselves had earlier in their careers… While others recognize providing direction may be efficient, but hope their team will find new and better ways to tackle the challenge. In particular, some form of “hail Mary” that drives sales and even better at a low cost.

Frankly, demands today on Korean export driven business have pushed and stretched teams. Many feel they are operating at maximum with little room for additional market share or sales.

Risk avoidance adds another layer when new ideas are presented, too.

Under these circumstances I have two recommendations.

  1. Present multiple and alternative ideas and countermeasures… vs. selecting one idea. I know a common response is “we do this, but to little avail.”  This does take some cultural savvy… the best teams in Korea do find ways to get their message heard. I can help here…. in providing you with a best approach.
  2. Couple with suggesting a trial or pilot approach to minimize risk and investment— with the ability to roll out fast. Again, this takes some savvy in how best to share and present…. Something I do often….

Care to discuss solutions? My personal assistant Stacey at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

Everything Korea, September 19 Episode, Sub-cultures Matter

September 19, 2016 Global Business Comments Off on Everything Korea, September 19 Episode, Sub-cultures Matter

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As many of you know, I work between Korean affiliates and companies. What stands out is how sub-cultures vary even within the same Group. Perhaps moving among affiliates sometimes in a single day, I see and experience the subtle differences more than most.  This can range from the tangibles like building design, workspace layout, dress code and amenities to intangibles such as what one can sense in day to day employee engagement, morale and comradery.

In fact, there are sub cultural differences:

1) in Korea between divisions and affiliates, 2) with Korea and their own overseas divisions and 3) as I noted between the local overseas affiliates.

So, sub-cultures do matter.

Digging deeper, I feel recognizing what is common between the companies’ counts, too. This can include intrinsic Group values and norms shared across the organization, or even more common general Korean business practices and expectations.

To add to the complexity, often the local sub-culture of an affiliate has evolved over time, and very independent of the mother organization in Korea.  BTW We’re seeing as Korean Groups have expanded their global organizations into many markets there has been greater effort to now align the overseas operations with the HQ corporate culture.  (I’ll provide some more on this in one of my next Vodcast)…

This means when a Korea related issue surfaces in local operations we have to look at with several colored lenses.  Candidly, that how I pull apart situations and provide a solid work-through when supporting clients as a mentor and their Korea business strategist.

Learn More

Have a question or want to learn more about how I support and mentor clients? My personal assistant Stacey at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

Everything Korea, September 12 Episode, Chuseok 2016 Culture Alert

September 12, 2016 Global Business Comments Off on Everything Korea, September 12 Episode, Chuseok 2016 Culture Alert

It’s that time of the year with Chuseok, (the Korean Harvest Moon Festival) right around the corner.

In 2016, Chuseok holiday falls on September 15, the day before and after also celebrated as National Holidays.

Koreans previously followed the lunar calendar, but in recent history, they have followed the solar calendar in line with international practice.

While public holidays are based on the solar calendar, there are a few days that are celebrated based on the lunar calendar. These are the two most important traditional holidays, the Korean New Year’s Day (the first day of the first lunar month) and Chuseok mid-autumn festival (fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month).

In mass, (and I mean a substantial part of the population) families travel back to their home villages. Over the holiday they may perform ancestral rituals at the graves of relatives as well as share time with their family over traditional foods.

For your Korean colleagues (in Korea), you can wish them a happy Chuseok by phone, text, or email on Monday September 12 after 4 PM (Tuesday AM in Korea).  Again, most Koreans will have a 5-day weekend starting their Wednesday …

For expat Koreans working outside Korea, here and globally you can wish then happy Chuseok on Thursday September 15.

 

If you’d like to try, here’s a common greeting.

추석 잘 지 내 새요

Chuseok jal ji nae sae yo..

To conclude, even though many things have been changed by Korea’s rapid industrialization, urbanization, and globalization we find in the celebration of Chuseok that family remains one of the bedrock of Korean society.

Everything Korea August 8 Hyundai and Kia– The early years, Plus Some

August 8, 2016 Global Business Comments Off on Everything Korea August 8 Hyundai and Kia– The early years, Plus Some

After a week of travel supporting clients, some new and some longtime, I am reminded how needs vary.  In many cases its sharing lessons learned and resources I’ve developed.

One that comes to mind is my 2012, Hyundai and Kia Motors: The Early Years and Product Development. Beyond a comprehensive look of the rise of one of the world’s top carmakers as the brands entered the market, it provides some great insights into Korea’s economic growth. This model at first produced products for their domestic needs then for export outside Korea.

In particular, Korea to enter many new markets looked to Japan and the West for a transfer of technology and explicit knowledge, such as blueprints, technical specifications, production manuals, and training of engineers and production teams.

Over time Korean companies developed their own in-house integrated technology research, development, and design not to mention the economies of scale needed for the Korean automaker to compete globally with industry heavyweights such as Sony and Panasonic in electronics and Toyota, Ford, GM, and VW in auto-production.

To Dig Deeper

Here’s a link to Hyundai and Kia Motors: The Early Years and Product Development

https://www.scribd.com/document/283275859/Hyundai-and-Kia-Motors-The-Early-Years-and-Product-Development

As Always….

Have a Korea-facing situation that needs addressing?  Need some insights into Korea-facing challenges?  In many cases, we can provide solutions and workarounds.  My personal assistant Stacey at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

Everything Korea, July 25 Episode: Mentoring, Leadership and West Point

July 25, 2016 Global Business Comments Off on Everything Korea, July 25 Episode: Mentoring, Leadership and West Point

In last week’s commentary, I shared my recent Branding In Asia interview. http://brandinginasia.com/don-southerton-interview/

Topics ranged from Korea’s changing corporate culture to upmarket trends with Korean automakers Hyundai, Kia, and their new stand-alone luxury brand Genesis.

What drew much attention was the profile’s mention of my 40+ years of Korean martial arts experience, the Tae Kwon Do Hall of Fame, and more so my years at the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. From 1983 to 1991, I served as the Cadet martial arts instructor and USMA Karate Team coach.

Over the years, I remained in contact with a few of the former cadets. More recently via Facebook and Linkedin, I have been re-united with many more… This had been rewarding on several levels including how they served their country in peace time and conflict as well as how they have become outstanding leaders in both the private and public sectors.

Personally, beyond seeing how their lives have unfolded, what touches me most are the kind words they share.  It but reminds me the impact we have on other’s lives and the need to support and mentor whenever possible… the fruits of this labor revealed over time.

As one former cadet shared:

“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything you taught me and the team.  I’ve applied those lessons time and again and worked to pass the knowledge on.  I just retired after 27 years in the Army.  Time does pass swiftly 🙂  Please accept my best wishes for your continued success.  Attached is a recommendation, if it is helpful.”
Linkedin Recommendation Link ( Scroll down to USMA/ West Point)  https://www.linkedin.com/in/donsoutherton

All said, much of my day is devoted to supporting key leadership –part sounding board, part helping keep the issues in perspective, part helping them keep their job…  and providing workarounds and alternatives—all with a Korea facing lens.

Connecting Deeper

Have a Korea-facing situation that needs addressing?  Need insights into Korea-facing business?  In many cases, we can provide solutions and workarounds.

My personal assistant Stacey at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

Everything Korea: May 2 Episode, Part 2 Globally Mandated Programs

May 5, 2016 Commentary, Global Business, vodcast Comments Off on Everything Korea: May 2 Episode, Part 2 Globally Mandated Programs

As I pointed out in Part 1 of this series, recognizing there will be challenges is one thing, providing a solid solution is another. I’d like to address these and other issues when we look at Globally Mandated Program.

It is always best that globally developed and mandated programs are crafted to mesh and align well in support local operations…

So what are my recommendations?   I’d be happy to share just a sample for consideration.

First all programs should:

  • Recognize the need for visual content to reflect our diversity– Low vs. high- context presentations, plus inclusive of individuals of Color, Ethnicity and Gender.  (In many cases, I find global content is very White).
  • Get high-level local leadership input and support (vs. just input from working level team.)
  • Programs regardless of the content should align with local operations. For example with corporate culture, efforts should allow the local organizations to define their own corporate culture, and the global content developed to be flexible and easily incorporated into current training initiatives like New Employee Orientation and mandatory compliance workshops.
  • Avoid hiring an outside agency to craft, they rarely get True Vision–they   understand the Data, but not Context.  They may add credibility and professional look and feel, but to be cost effective, they usually plug Data into a generic Boiler Plate.
  • Craft content in a way to connect to a wide segment of the workforce including  “The New Creative Class.” (See my case study on topic and who they are).  Here is the Link.Creative Class Case Study
  • The program should be launched in a way that dazzles and impresses the local teams and leadership.  Sadly I have seen well-crafted program presented poorly.

Concluding Thought  

Shared globally programs can align an organization and serve as a compass to steer the respective teams forward.  It is also a daunting task and one requiring a sound plan and execution.

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For questions raised, Stacey, my personal assistant at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone, meet or handle by email.

Would you like a copy of my book Korea Facing: Secrets for Success In Korean Global Business?   Click Here

Everything Korea, April 18 Episode: the Toolbox, a Global Approach, and Creatives

April 20, 2016 Global Business, vodcast Comments Off on Everything Korea, April 18 Episode: the Toolbox, a Global Approach, and Creatives

This week I’d like to share three reports. All focus on Korea business. All easily accessed…read or download

….From the Korea-facing Global Business Toolbox: Strategies and Tactics

This report shares my recent thoughts on top strategies and tactics for tackling Korean facing global business. Note global is emphasized, since working outside Korea within local subsidiary operations is my primary focus and specialty.

https://www.scribd.com/doc/302653498/From-the-Korea-facing-Global-Business-Toolbox-Strategies-and-Tactics

A Global Approach: For Korea Management Teams

This Case Study provides a roadmap and best practices to their Korean management and overseas divisions. This includes new Korean brands eager to launch their products and services outside Korea.  The study is also applicable to those established Korean brands already in overseas markets who could benefit from benchmarking “what works” and “what doesn’t.”

https://www.scribd.com/doc/286823722/A-Global-Approach-For-Korea-Management-Teams

The Challenges and Gaps in a Creative Workplace Culture: U.S. and Korea

The role of the creative class continues to pique my interest. In particular, I am drawn to uncovering the “culture” needed to foster the Creative Mind Process.

https://www.scribd.com/doc/271936685/Creative-Workplace-Culture-U-S-and-Korea

Oh, one more thing, in case you missed The Hyundai GalloperShinhwa, Myth and Legend, it is now available.  Just go to http://unbouncepages.com/galloper/

Here’s a short lead into the article.

With the introduction of Genesis Motors Company in premium luxury car segment as well as the Hyundai Motor’s IONIQ, part of an expanded model lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles, many in the industry see these as bold moves by the Hyundai Motor Group and it leadership. Actually, it is but the latest chapter in a story and a legacy reaching back decades.

For questions raised, Stacey, my personal assistant at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat by phone or handle by email.

Everything Korea, February 29: The “Why” Behind Seeking Alternatives

March 4, 2016 Global Business, vodcast Comments Off on Everything Korea, February 29: The “Why” Behind Seeking Alternatives

Another Lesson from My Korea Facing Global Business Toolbox 

More than a decade ago during a group session I hosted for overseas Korean and western senior managers, the discussion turned to the “role” of the westerners on teams engaged in local project development. The local western teams felt very under-utilized and wanted to contribute more. This, of course, was a source of considerable frustration for the westerners because their previous automotive OEM employers had given them considerable responsibility with little direct oversight and more fully utilized their experience and expertise.

Pondering for a moment during the discussion, a senior Korean pointed out that local input was respected, but perhaps this needed to be better communicated. The Korean manager went on to explain that his Korean teams knew how to do things “Korean style”, but what was needed were other ways of approaching work related issues.

More recently in early 2016, a senior Korean leader I have been mentoring echoed the similar sentiment.  First, how local input was to be sought out and encouraged across the organization. And, second that seeking out “alternatives” was one of the company’s core tenets transcending the Group’s more contemporary updated values—but in actually deeply rooted solidly in the corporate culture.

The takeaway –share wherever possible other ways of approaching work related issues.

 In closing, if you have questions regarding my Toolbox or Interested in how I work with companies? Stacey, my personal assistant at stacey@koreabcw.com can coordinate a time for us to chat.

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Everything Korea, November 30 Episode: The Economist looks at Korean corporate culture.

December 3, 2015 Commentary, Global Business, Korean Business Culture, vodcast Comments Off on Everything Korea, November 30 Episode: The Economist looks at Korean corporate culture.

This week’s episode shares thoughts from an interview with The Korean corporate culture.  I have attached a link to a PDF version. Take a few minutes and read. BTW The article appears in this week’s Print Edition as well in the Digital version…. Circulation 4.5 Million paper/ 2.5 million Digital …

The Article paints the Korean workplace as softening…. And I agree this is true at Hyundai Capital as they cite… and I feel Capital is perhaps one, if not the leader in crafting less restrictive and innovative workplace in Korea…

This said, and not a surprise for my viewers and readers, is how the article– in probing deeper–how many Korean companies in contrast have gotten tougher on staff … in fact it’s my point of view that this is more dominate force today in the Korean workplace especially in overseas operations, than a softening ….

Don Southerton, who advises South Korean businesses on how to manage their foreign operations, says many have been “going back to basics” since the slowdown in China and other big emerging markets. Their Korean staff have reverted to working longer hours and straining to hit short-term targets, under pressure from the bosses back in Seoul.

The article adds some companies (code word for the major Groups) in Korea appear “to be tightening the screws,” “making them stick to a strict lunch hour,” or “asking them to arrive at the office an hour earlier.”

All in all, I feel The Economist article reflects an ever-changing Korean workplace, one I share in mentoring, coaching and crafting a strategy to overcome the challenges.

Access Link to the Article

https://www.scribd.com/doc/291417799/Loosening-their-ties-The-

In the meantime, would you like to schedule a time to discuss your Korea facing business questions?

To facilitate and with my rather demanding workload and travel, Stacey, my personal assistant at stacey@koreabcw.com can schedule us for a time.

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