The Scholarship Without Borders Journal
Abstract
At a time where international teams functioning remotely have become increasingly prevalent (Salesforce, 2020), understanding how cultural context shapes leadership practices is important. This study draws on the experiences of leaders who managed remote teams composed of international members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings indicate that leaders encountered a myriad of challenges, from maintaining team cohesion across geographic boundaries to effectively addressing communication breakdowns and fostering a sense of belonging among team members (Alfehaid & Mohamad, 2019; Ford et al., 2017; Fried & Hansson, 2013). The research findings are consistent with literature regarding the difference in challenges faced in the United States (US) compared to Brazil (Garcia, 2021; Waight et al., 2022; Wilthorn & Wikstrom, 2014). They reveal that cultural context influences how leaders in the United States and Brazil respond to these challenges. Specifically, this research identifies that leaders in the United States tend to emphasize leveraging technology, adding a personal touch to team management, and having global awareness as key factors for success in managing remote global teams. Conversely, Brazilian leaders focused more on operational management, limiting junior remote roles, and the necessity of a leader’s personal self-awareness. These distinctions reflect the context and geographical challenges in each country and they provide insight into how managers led remote teams in the US and Brazil during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recommended Citation
Schneider Demaria, Suelen; Gurick, Mitchell; and Axtell, Kayleigh
(2024)
"Cultural Context Matters: An Examination of Remote Team Leaders from Brazil and the United States,"
The Scholarship Without Borders Journal: Vol. 2:
Iss.
2, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.57229/2834-2267.1047
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/swbj/vol2/iss2/6