If building a winning team is difficult, building a winning multicultural team may seem impossible. It’s not. But the team leader does have to consider the different communication styles, language and ideas about teamwork that come with cultural diversity.
Any team functions best in an atmosphere of openness; it’s critical for a multicultural team. Team members need to be comfortable talking about differences and it’s the team leader’s job to create the necessary atmosphere by being open-minded and willing to discuss issues as they arise. One sure way to prevent a team feeling from developing is a “boss” who doesn’t want to listen to his or her team members.
Your winning multicultural team’s first discussion should be about what is meant by “team.” Team concept is different across cultures. Some cultures, like Hispanic and Asian, are traditionally very team-oriented. Team members work together and everyone shares decisions, every step of the way.
North Americans tend to be more independent. Team members often work by themselves on one part of the project and then the individual “pieces” are brought together for project completion.
The leaders, or managers, of a multicultural team need to be able to consider the needs of each team member. Divide assignments and responsibilities accordingly.
Happy team members are productive team members. Managers and team leaders have to find the incentive that best motivates each individual. Cultures that are team-oriented may not be motivated by the same incentives as more independent-minded cultures. I’ll share some ideas for motivating you multicultural team next time.
Remember...You Are a Super Hero!
Jinsoo
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