MANAGEMENT WISDOM IN XITSONGA PROVERBS

Proverbial wisdom is a powerful tool that is used by the Vatsonga in their communications to instil cultural norms and values that have a powerful impact on people’s lives. This article focuses on the management ideas contained in some Xitsonga proverbs. Its emphasis is on the Vatsonga’s proverbial wisdom in relation to management and business issues. The article covers the following management principles and techniques: dealing with work; being an effective manager; dealing with business associates; dealing with competition; dealing with superiors; dealing with the workforce; dealing with middle management; dealing with communication; and dealing with finances. It challenges language practitioners and the education system – the business schools in particular – to take a new look at ways of developing modules that fit in with South Africa’s local content.