Value-Related Problems

People in Hungary seek long-term relationships. They will invest time and emotions in people who can potentially stay around for a lifetime.

Since you plan to go back home eventually, you will be less likely to be chosen as a close friend by the majority of Hungarians, because of the potential pain of loosing you.

A Hungarian may feel that the issues in his workplace are outside his control. He cannot control the responses of others. The leader can help the Hungarian see the need to take personal responsibility for his actions, do appropriate planning, and set goals.

In a Christian ministry context: faith and grace are important values to teach.

(Source of thought: Mentoring Guidelines for Church Planters by Rev. Robert W. Martin)

The Hungarian decision-making process is much longer than in the US, with a greater need for information in a risk-averse culture. Hungarians need to explore every avenue intellectually and practically before they can fill in the gaps. They try to gather as much information as possible before taking an important decision.

Compared to US practices, the process is much more comprehensive and not so sequential. While trying to solve a problem, Americans tend to look immediately for solutions, while the Hungarian tries first to understand the causes of the problem. Only when they feel sure they understand why and how the problem occurred do they feel prepared to solve it.

A “no-change” or status quo situation would mean stagnation or even death for many North American accomplishers, while most Hungarian people would consider it a sign of continuity or stability. It generally takes time and patience to change things in Hungary, especially outside of urban areas.

If you are in charge of a project, you need to “sell” your changes with the benefits that come along. It would almost be similar to a public relations campaign. The soft sell approach usually works better than the hard sell, aggressive attitude. You would need to answer one of the most important questions for the Hungarian: “Why?” and develop your reasoning. People might not agree with you, but if you show them the logic and value behind the change, they should become more open. And might even be willing to argue with you!