2025년 02월 14일 출간 | ISBN : 1198389133 | 296쪽

저자 : Evan Eun Sung Kim Evan Eun Sung Kim Born in 1957 into a warm and peaceful family, Evan Kim grew up in Seoul, Korea, where he attended Seoul High School before enrolling at Yonsei University. He majored in chemical engineering as an undergraduate and pursued industrial engineering in graduate school. Later, he earned an MBA in the United States. In 1981, he joined SK Group in Korea, and in 1985, he was assigned to the U.S. as an expatriate. Since then, he has gained extensive experience in corporate life and consulting, specializing in bicultural organizational dynamics and identifying the key elements of success in the workplace. Throughout his career, Evan recognized the critical importance of balancing between tangible elements-such as products, services, and systems-with intangible factors like culture, values, and organizational insight. This realization stemmed from his deep involvement in diverse organizations across the U.S. and Korea. Drawing from these experiences, he has authored several books, including The Guide to Living in America, American Franchise System, Why Do Koreans Wear White Socks with Formal Suits?, and Understanding the HR System in the U.S. Through his writing, columns, lectures, and training programs, Evan strives to convey the essence of diversity and inclusion, empowering others to navigate the complexities of multicultural environments. Looking ahead, Evan remains committed to sharing the knowledge, experiences, and lessons he has gained from his personal, organizational, and societal life over the past 40 years. His focus remains on the elements necessary for building successful bicultural communities. As someone who has lived between two worlds, he seeks to leave a meaningful legacy by delivering thoughtful and responsible messages. He aspires to be remembered as “a fragrant tenant on Earth,” bringing positivity and inspiration during his brief time in this world.

Prologue Global Business Leader Foreword A Message of Advice for Global Leaders Hidden Leader Who Shows the Path to Becoming a Global Leader By Song, Young Soo The "Initial Power" of Thriving in a Multicultural Organization By Eom, Jun Ha Mind's Compass on a Phenomenal Journey By James Roh A Guide to Understand American Society and Organizations By Kim, Young Hun Ⅰ. American Society Respect, Honesty, Trust, Attention and Care, Family-Like Organizing Marathon The Vision of the Company and Me Gossip Compensation and Motivation Diversity and Inclusion Communication and Listening Efficiency and Effectiveness Good Company From "Myself" to "We" and "Together" Work Life and Satisfaction Five Core Values for Communication and Relationships Why Eat Together? Ⅱ. American Organization "STAND" Makes Leader 101 a Reality Personal Management Innovation My Between Words and Actions Diagnostic Technique for Leaders The Age of Lifelong Learning The Difference Between a Pro and an Amateur Harmonization of the Viewpoint Change for Improvement and Growth Is Not an Option but Mandatory The Distance Between Colleagues An Attitude of a Leader with Dignity The Lubricant of Relationships The Give-and-Take Formula Basics The Class of Leaders Who Will Set Nations and Organizations Right A Truly Professional Manager The Necessity of Non-Business Communication and Relationships Ⅲ. American Business Understand Melting Pot and Salad Bowl First Individualism and Collectivism Coexist Cultural Generalization Boundaries A Gap Between Formal and Pragmatic Logic Sharing the Korean Sentiment Stereotypes and Misconceptions About the United States The Difference Between Friendliness and Friendship Inherent Characteristics of United States Organizations Basic Manners in American Organizations Epilogue Competencies Required for Leading Diverse Organizations in the United States

The United States is a vast country. Most individuals live within a limited geographic area and time frame, with constrained experience and knowledge. Yet, some confidently assert, "This is what America is." When such voices belong to those with high social status and economic power, their distorted views risk shaping an incomplete or misleading picture of the country.
Immigrants, expatriates, and travelers in the U.S. often experience distinct phases when encountering or adapting to a new culture.
The first is the so-called "tourist phase" or "honeymoon phase," which lasts typically lasts first three to six months. During this period, excitement and curiosity dominates as individuals focus on learning and understanding the new culture. Psychological conflicts are rare, as Americans generally display inclusiveness and hospitality toward short-term visitors and new arrivals.
The second phase is the "confusion and frustration stage," which usually emerges within the first year. By this time, the initial excitement of the move or visit has worn off. As individuals integrate into daily life among Americans, they are no longer seen as visitors but are treated as equals. This shift often brings new challenges and cultural confrontations as they navigate the realities of adapting to a different way of life. This confusion and frustration may lead to feelings of resentment, dislike, or even inferiority toward the U.S. It is not uncommon for individuals to criticize Americans as a way to expressing their negative emotions.
The third stage, known as the "adaptation stage," follows the "confusion and frustration" phase. During this stage, individuals begin to recognize the gap between their expectations and reality and make conscious efforts to bridge it. Over time, you may find themselves gradually embracing the new culture, often without even realizing it. Actively working to understand cultural differences through careful observation and analysis is crucial during this stage, as if helps foster greater acceptance and integration.
For a culture to take shape, certain basic elements are required, often referred to as the 3Ps: place, people, and period.
First, culture is shaped by geographic regions. For instance, the New England area in the Northeastern U.S. is generally conservative, while the West Coast, especially California, is known for its liberal values. The "Bible belt" in the South is heavily influenced by religion and regional pride. These regional differences result in distinct cultural variations, even within the U.S.
Next, culture is shaped by specific people, or demographics. Populations are often categorized by income levels-high, middle, or low-and by occupation, with white-collar workers referring to professionals and mental labors, and blue-collar to those in manual labors. Additionally, the U.S. comprises a diverse range of racial and ethnic groups, including white, black, Latino, and Asian populations. This mix of demographics and social classes creates unique and sometimes surprising cultural dynamics.
In addition, specific generations and time periods play a pivotal role in shaping culture. Older generations often have distinct mindsets and lifestyles compared to younger ones, and as times progresses, culture naturally evolves. The culture of 1000 years ago is vastly different from that of 100 years ago, just as today's culture will differ from that of 100 years in the future.
When describing American culture, metaphors like the "melting pot" and the "salad bowl" are often invoked. The "melting pot" symbolizes unity through blending, while the "salad bowl" highlights the preservation of individual identities within a collective whole.
The United States has a rich history shaped by immigration, evolving into a federation where diverse races from around the world come together as equal members in pursuit of common goals. The "melting pot" metaphor symbolizes the unity of different races and cultures blending together to achieve shared objectives within the "crockpot" of America. In contrast, the "salad bowl" represents the diversity of races and cultures in the U.S., where each retain its unique characteristics, flavors, and colors, much like the vegetables and fruits in a bowl.
Recognizing this, Koreans in the U.S. should strive to maintain pride in their heritage and roots while actively contributing to the growth and prosperity of the U.S. and its communities as
Americans or residents or citizens. This calls for a positive and proactive approach, one that seeks to understand and appreciate American culture rather than criticizing it. By living alongside
Americans and embracing their perspectives, words, and behaviors, Koreans can foster meaningful communication and connections, ultimately serving as civilian diplomat for Korea and engaged citizens of the United States.