CONFLICT MANAGEMENT IN MULTICULTURAL TEAMS

STRATEGIES AND LEADERSHIP CHALLENGES

Abstract

Globalization has intensified the formation of multicultural teams within organizations, creating both challenges and opportunities for people management. This article aims to analyze the main conflicts in multicultural teams and the management techniques used to mitigate them. The methodology is based on semi-structured interviews with ten Brazilian managers leading multicultural teams, both in Brazil and abroad. The results indicate that effective communication, the promotion of interpersonal relationships, and an adaptive leadership style are the primary practices adopted to reduce conflicts and optimize organizational performance. Additionally, the research highlights that the impact of language barriers can be mitigated through the development of intercultural competencies and the implementation of specific training programs.