Trompenaars

Fons Trompenaars is a Dutch author and consultant in cross-cultural management. He is best known for his work with Charles Hampden-Turner and for developing a framework of cultural differences used in international business. Their collaboration produced Riding the Waves of Culture (1994) and related works that explore how national cultures influence leadership, communication, and organizational practices, and that underpin the consulting firm Trompenaars Hampden-Turner.

Trompenaars' cultural dimensions identify seven contrasts that shape interactions: universalism versus particularism; individualism versus communitarianism; neutral versus affective; specific versus diffuse; achievement versus ascription; sequential time versus synchronous time; and internal direction versus outer direction.

The model has been widely applied in cross-cultural training, international management, and global teamwork, helping organizations navigate negotiations and leadership development. Critics have noted that cultural dimensions risk stereotyping and may overlook within-country diversity. Trompenaars' work continues to influence research and practice in cross-cultural competence and global leadership.