Too Late? What Do You Mean? Cultural Norms Regarding Lateness for Meetings and Appointments

Abstract

In this study, we extend the research on lateness for meetings and appointments by taking a cultural norms perspective among South African (n = 76), Dutch (n = 86), and Pakistani (n = 83) respondents. Based upon the distinction between clock time and event time cultures, we examined time norms related to lateness. Pakistani respondents (from an event time culture) differed from the other two groups (from clock time cultures) in how they defined lateness to business meetings. Also, they found larger time intervals of lateness acceptable for appointments than the other two groups Based upon considerations related to power distance, we additionally tested whether not only clock or event time but also status would matter to lateness norms. In contrast to the South African and Pakistani respondents, Dutch respondents did not allow longer waiting times for people with higher status. We discuss our results in light of theoretical and practical implications and provide suggestions for future research.