Balancing Traditional Values with Modern HR Policies in Sri Lanka
An essential component of working relationships in Sri Lankan businesses is respect for authority and hierarchy. Employees often subordinate to top management, and decision-making is typically centralized, with leaders having the authority to make significant decisions (Hofstede Insights, 2023). This respect for hierarchy is not only a professional norm but also influenced by Sri Lanka's broader cultural context, which values seniority and knowledge. Additionally, Sri Lanka's collectivist society places a high importance on cooperation and group cohesion, encouraging employees to work together to achieve group goals and frequently prioritizing team success over individual achievement (Fernando & Cohen, 2011). Although this strategy encourages loyalty and solidarity among staff members, which contributes to a stable and tranquil workplace, it may also discourage staff members from expressing their own thoughts or opinions because doing so could be seen as impolite or d...