Five ways to deal with a multi-ethnic team

An increasing number of organisations are embracing cross-cultural diversity to leverage the understanding of a wide set of people in a complex business world. But this comes with its own set of challenges. Rica Bhattacharyya finds out how managers can best deal with such teams globally.

1. Respect Everyone

When others are articulating their ideas, it is important to disengage from your reaction, says S Raghunath, professor, corporate strategy and policy, IIM Bangalore. Leaders must make a conscious effort to avoid stereotypes linked to a particular culture and community, adds Jayesh Pandey, managing director, talent and organisation, Accenture.

2. Trust in the Diversity

The foremost advantage of a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic team is the diversity in background, and it is crucial for all team members to trust this. “Such a team can quickly realise that all team members have their own ways to solve the same problem,” says Pandey. When synergised, the team can achieve results beyond individual capability, he adds.

3. Communicate Clearly

Constant communication is critical when leaders are working in virtual time where they cannot read the expressions, tone and demeanour of team members across the globe from a different context, says Pandey. The effort to understand each other’s culture and perspective, and show curiosity about their lives and societal norms, will help leaders communicate effectively.

4. Socialise More

People from the same ethnic background tend to gravitate towards their social network, leading to differences of opinion with others. “There must be more socialising to appreciate the nuances and depth of each other’s expertise,” says Raghunath.

5. Know When To Lead

The mantra for building a successful multi-cultural team is to rally behind the person who is best suited for the job and works towards a shared purpose and goal, says Pandey.