Organisation as a Matter of Style

The “cultures” of two large Swedish multi‐national corporations are described and shown in my research to be very different. Both companies do exhibit definite styles of their own, which have existed and evolved during a considerable period of time. In both cultures, there are self‐reinforcing characteristics that give them stability. The original evolution of the styles is closely associated with the initiatives and personalities of a few individuals in both cases. As the cultures have matured, there is an influence on the individuals working in the organisation through socialisation and selection.