The case study Addressing Cultural Differences Across Virtual Teams explores many of the challenges culturally diverse groups could face when attempting to come together and work as a team. The case study examines how items such as language could impact the team’s cohesion and ability to communicate effectively. Additionally, the case study cites the trials a team may have to overcome when the members are across multiple time zones. Furthermore, the case study details how differences in the societal culture amongst the team members could affect their ability to function as one unit and reach the goal that is expected of them.
One of the largest problems cross-cultural teams, who rely heavily on communicating virtually, could face is a difference …show more content…
Members from one region of the world will have far different behaviors and practices than a member from an alternatively distant region. Members of different ethnic heritages will have different beliefs and values than others. With diverse members coming together on a team, the possibility for tension and animosity can exist, even in a virtual environment. Additionally, for no reason other than an individual’s ignorance toward a group of people, a member could inadvertently offend another member. This displeasure could put the team at odds and prevent it from achieving the intended …show more content…
The leaders should compose information about each member’s background and cultural complexities. By sharing the common beliefs, practices, customs and courtesies of each member’s culture, the information can help avoid the potential problem of disrespecting another member. It is important for the leadership of an organization to show it is open and accepting of culture differences within the team. “Ultimately, is it the topmost leader that determines the overall culture of the organization” (2005, p.128). When leadership sets the standard by expressing an open-mind and accepting attitude toward all groups, the members within the organization will follow. Even when the organization is full of members from diverse cultures, the culture of the organization will remain positive and
One of the largest problems cross-cultural teams, who rely heavily on communicating virtually, could face is a difference …show more content…
Members from one region of the world will have far different behaviors and practices than a member from an alternatively distant region. Members of different ethnic heritages will have different beliefs and values than others. With diverse members coming together on a team, the possibility for tension and animosity can exist, even in a virtual environment. Additionally, for no reason other than an individual’s ignorance toward a group of people, a member could inadvertently offend another member. This displeasure could put the team at odds and prevent it from achieving the intended …show more content…
The leaders should compose information about each member’s background and cultural complexities. By sharing the common beliefs, practices, customs and courtesies of each member’s culture, the information can help avoid the potential problem of disrespecting another member. It is important for the leadership of an organization to show it is open and accepting of culture differences within the team. “Ultimately, is it the topmost leader that determines the overall culture of the organization” (2005, p.128). When leadership sets the standard by expressing an open-mind and accepting attitude toward all groups, the members within the organization will follow. Even when the organization is full of members from diverse cultures, the culture of the organization will remain positive and