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Code-switching in newly-formed multinational project teams : challenges, strategies and effects

Author

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  • Mary Vigier

    (CleRMa - Clermont Recherche Management - ESC Clermont-Ferrand - École Supérieure de Commerce (ESC) - Clermont-Ferrand - UCA [2017-2020] - Université Clermont Auvergne [2017-2020])

  • Helen Spencer-Oatey

    (University of Warwick [Coventry])

Abstract

Based on an ethnographic-like case study comprising observations and interviews with members of three newly-formed multinational project teams, our study explores the micro-processes of interactional teamwork and captures how the three teams develop strategies for managing the challenges of code-switching in their interactions. Findings from our study suggest that teams interpret the impact of code-switching challenges differently in spite of the fact that they are performing similar activities, suggesting that adopting (clearlydefined) rules for managing interactions may not be as effective as the presence of other factors within the teams. Our findings extend theory on the use of a common working language in multinational teams and go beyond this by illustrating how individual teams establish practices for handling the challenges of code-switching, and the effects of these on team interactions.

Suggested Citation

  • Mary Vigier & Helen Spencer-Oatey, 2017. "Code-switching in newly-formed multinational project teams : challenges, strategies and effects," Post-Print hal-03220241, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-03220241
    DOI: 10.1177/1470595816684151
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://uca.hal.science/hal-03220241
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Ashish Malik & Ralf Bebenroth, 2017. "Mind Your Language! : Role of Target Firm Language in Post-Merger Integration," Discussion Paper Series DP2017-15, Research Institute for Economics & Business Administration, Kobe University.
    2. Anne Bartel-Radic & Fabienne Munch, 2023. "Cross-cultural boundary spanning activities in a global team," Post-Print halshs-04148890, HAL.

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