Workers’ Perceptions Regarding Approaches To Intercultural Communication In The Workplace: A Study In A South African University

Abstract

The workforce in South Africa has seen significant transformation, with many organizations now collaborating with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Cultural diversity influences behavior and interactions among employees, who may find it challenging to navigate communication with colleagues from different cultures. This article explores workers' perceptions of intercultural communication approaches in the workplace. Using a qualitative case study design, the study involved ten professionals from various departments at a South African university. The findings reveal a lack of a comprehensive plan for conscious intercultural communication at the university. Employees noted the absence of strategic communication guidance and inconsistent management of intercultural communication across the institution. The study suggests formalizing management intentions into a policy or framework to standardize intercultural communication practices university-wide. The research aims to guide the university towards a formal, coordinated and unified intercultural communication strategy. Complementary findings from various sources contribute to comprehensive conclusions for developing this strategy, intended to enhance intercultural communication effectiveness.