Francophone and Anglophone Values
One of the larger cultural issues that confronts Canada is the question of Quebec sep-
aratism and anglophone-francophone differences. Thus, it may be of interest to managers
and employees in Canadian firms to be aware of some of the potential cultural differ-
ences when managing in francophone environments compared with anglophone envi-
ronments. A number of studies have shown that English-speaking Canadians and
French-speaking Canadians have distinctive values. Francophones have been found to
be more collectivist, or group-oriented, with a greater need for achievement, while
anglophones have been found to be more individualist, or I-centred.^25 Francophones
have also been shown to be more concerned about the interpersonal aspects of the
workplace than task competence.^26 They have also been found to be more committed
to their work organizations.^27 Anglophones have been shown to take more risks.^28 By
contrast, a recent study examining work values in French- and English-speaking Canada
found that French-speaking Canadians were not risk-takers and had the highest values
for “reducing or avoiding ambiguity and uncertainty at work.”^29
Other studies have found that anglophone managers tended to value autonomy and
intrinsic job values, such as achievement, and thus were more achievement-oriented,
while francophone managers tended to value affiliation and extrinsic job values, such
as technical supervision.^30
A study conducted at the University of Ottawa and Laval University suggests that
some of the differences reported in previous research may be decreasing.^31 Another
study indicates that French Canadians have become more like English Canadians in
valuing autonomy and self-fulfillment.^32 However, there is evidence of some continu-
ing differences in lifestyle values. A recent Canadian Institute for Health Information
report noted that Quebecers experience more stress than other Canadians.^33 The study
also found that Quebecers smoke more, have the highest workplace absenteeism rate,
and are less physically active than the rest of the country. Another study found that
Chapter 3Values, Attitudes, and Their Effects in the Workplace 79EXHIBIT 3-4 Canadian and American Value Differences
Percentage Who Completely
Agree With Statement
Statement Canadians AmericansThe impact of globalization on their country can be described as very good. 36 21People are better off in a free market, despite inequality. 19 28It is more important that government ensure that nobody is in need than that
government stay out of the way. 52 34It is the responsibility of government to tend to the very poor who cannot take care
of themselves. 43 29Immigrants have a very good influence on how well things are going. 19 8Religion should be a matter of private faith, kept separate from government policy. 71 55Homosexuality is a way of life that should be accepted by society. 69 51
Source:The Pew Research Center for the People and the Press, Views of a Changing World 2003(Washington, DC: The Pew Research Center for
the People and the Press, June 2003).