Exploring Leadership Strategies and Dynamics in Leading Cross-Cultural Virtual Teams

Sammanfattning: This study aims to explore the experiences and perspectives of leaders who lead cross-cultural teams virtually, examining the challenges and benefits they face, and providing valuable suggestions to help them overcome these challenges and capitalize on the benefits. The study integrates elements from leadership theories, culture theories and communication theories with empirical data to understand what makes virtual leadership of cross-cultural teams successful. The research justifies the use of a qualitative method to obtain in-depth descriptions and experiences related to the unique challenges and benefits of leading fully remote, cross-cultural teams. Primary data was obtained through eight (8) semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions over a period of three weeks. Participants were selected based on self-selection sampling, and interviews were conducted online via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. The study employed a systematic combination to compare existing theories on successful leadership in virtual cross-cultural teams with leaders' experiences and opinions. The key findings of the study are that while leading cross-cultural teams in a virtual setting presents a multitude of benefits, such as effective communication, cultural understanding, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving skills, flexibility, leadership development, and cost efficiency. The study also reveals challenges such as language barriers, time zone differences, hierarchy and organizational structure, conflicts and resolution, reliability and individual working styles, hindered creativity, and trust development. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by offering insights and serving as a resource for leaders in virtual cross-cultural team settings. It suggests that inherent and learnt traits such as intelligence, communication skills, people skills, problem solving and adaptability are crucial to leading a cross-cultural team virtually. The study sheds light on a yet understudied topic by understanding the benefits and challenges faced by leaders but also serves as a valuable resource for leaders seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities in this context. By synthesizing the findings, the study aims to guide leaders toward successful leadership in virtual cross-cultural teams and enhance their understanding of the complexities involved.