Cross-cultural communication in multicultural organizations : a study of employees’ perspective at ABB Finland Oy
Aslam, Muhammad Yasir (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060420534
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025060420534
Tiivistelmä
The cascade effect on the road to multiculturalism in business industries is becoming a crucial aspect of the modern-day globalized workplace. Although diversity among the organizations bring with it certain challenges and communication in particular is a problematic area. Personnel often feel uncomfortable and uncertain because of the difference in their backgrounds and cultures. Strong and clear communication is very important. In today's world, accepting and dealing with diversity in workplaces is the highest priority.
This study looks at the problems workers from diverse cultural backgrounds face when communicating in a multicultural workplace. This investigation was done within the context of ABB Finland Oy, known for embracing various cultures across its operations. The study employs a quantitative research method to analyze the employees’ perceptions of intercultural communication through a defined set of questions, thereby enabling the scrutiny of the patterns, trends, and problem areas in their communications.
The results showed that common issues are language barriers, communication styles, and cultural misunderstandings. Many personnel also felt that their cultural background might hinder their chances for promotion. Yet, most people were open to training and wanted more backing to improve communication. Some had already received customary cross-cultural training, but others said they never had the chance. Propositions from employees encompassed language support programs, team-building activities, and mentorship programs. The study supports thoughts from other researchers like Hofstede and Gudykunst, who also thought that cultural values and language problems can negatively affect communication. It also aligns with Gertsen’s view that training is helpful in multicultural teams.
In the end, this thesis endorses that ABB Finland Oy should offer more training and provision to help employees appreciate each other better. The company can produce a more respectful and successful workplace for everyone, by refining communication.
This study looks at the problems workers from diverse cultural backgrounds face when communicating in a multicultural workplace. This investigation was done within the context of ABB Finland Oy, known for embracing various cultures across its operations. The study employs a quantitative research method to analyze the employees’ perceptions of intercultural communication through a defined set of questions, thereby enabling the scrutiny of the patterns, trends, and problem areas in their communications.
The results showed that common issues are language barriers, communication styles, and cultural misunderstandings. Many personnel also felt that their cultural background might hinder their chances for promotion. Yet, most people were open to training and wanted more backing to improve communication. Some had already received customary cross-cultural training, but others said they never had the chance. Propositions from employees encompassed language support programs, team-building activities, and mentorship programs. The study supports thoughts from other researchers like Hofstede and Gudykunst, who also thought that cultural values and language problems can negatively affect communication. It also aligns with Gertsen’s view that training is helpful in multicultural teams.
In the end, this thesis endorses that ABB Finland Oy should offer more training and provision to help employees appreciate each other better. The company can produce a more respectful and successful workplace for everyone, by refining communication.