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“Do you understand me correctly?” The role of accents in communication in global virtual teams

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  • Szymanski, Mike
  • Brighi, Carlo

Abstract

This study investigates the role of accent-based status differences on communication within global virtual teams. Through a quasi-experimental study including 117 individuals and 357 voicemails and written messages, we examine recipients' perceptions of the sender's intentions. We show how accent status – distinguished between native and non-native – match in verbal communication plays a role in how listeners interpret feedback. Applying social identity theory and suggesting an extension to media synchronicity theory, our study advances language-sensitive international management research by demonstrating that accent – in addition to language proficiency – constitutes another aspect of language that plays a role in interaction among linguistically diverse global virtual team members. We discuss implications for practice and future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Szymanski, Mike & Brighi, Carlo, 2025. "“Do you understand me correctly?” The role of accents in communication in global virtual teams," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 31(2).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:intman:v:31:y:2025:i:2:s1075425324001029
    DOI: 10.1016/j.intman.2024.101221
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