Challenges in Multicultural Organizations and Leading Strategies

Abstract

For the achievement of globalization all around the world, there is a dire need of multiculturalism in our society and as we are progressing toward it, we are facing many difficulties regarding diversity in an organization. People in such organizations feel threatened and uncomfortable about their ethnicities. But as we progress into the 21st century we cannot overlook the importance of diversity.

This thesis is based on the study of challenges that are faced by people in an organization, who are of diverse backgrounds. In this thesis all possible challenges that they can face are highlighted. Not just what they are facing but also the problems that management faces due to a diverse workforce working under them. The purpose was not just to study these challenges but also to look for possible strategies that could help to overcome such problems.

In this research mixed methodology approach was used, as both quantitative and qualitative methods were applied. For the research purpose different reports were analyzed and previous studies were used for gaining the knowledge. A questionnaire was used to ask about the problems faced by workers in multicultural organizations. 20 participants were given the questionnaire and then asked about those questions individually. It was kind of a one-on-one interview where they also told us about the possible strategies that they suggested about certain problems or certain policies that they were uncomfortable with.

Participants were divided into two groups of Individuals and management. They both replied to the questions according to their experiences. There were some queries to which both parties replied very differently and it was clear that even in this day and time we are still facing things like racism and stereotypical behavior in our work environment. Some specific cultures have a superiority complex and ethnicities look down on other due to religious and political differences. Participants suggested that multiculturalism was needed in today’s Organization so all we can do is to arrange such activities that can bring employees together. Workshops can be held, seminars can be organized, outdoor activities can also play their role.