How Many Methods Do We Need to Effectively Train Multicultural Teams?

Abstract

Multinational teams (MNTs) are a common occurrence within and across many national and international companies. They have the potential for superior performance compared to mono-cultural teams. However, even though cross-cultural training (CCT) for MNT performance enhancement has a critical role to play, evaluation studies about its usefulness are sparse. This evaluation research investigates the experiences of stakeholders of a specific CCT, named Model of Freedom (MoF). Furthermore, aiming to determine how many different training methods may be needed to deliver effective training, it evaluates the processes and training mechanisms of the MoF and its ‘value’ for MNTs in light of this objective. This research adopts an interpretive position, employing qualitative data collection methods. Interviews were conducted with the developer of the MoF, cross-cultural trainers familiar with it, former CCT participants, and external experts. In addition, CCT observations were made in Holland, Scotland, France, and Japan.