Supervisor

Alan Foran

Programme

MA in International Business

Keywords

Intercultural Communication, Multicultural Teams, Hospitality Sector

Abstract

This study investigates intercultural communication challenges within multicultural teams in the hospitality sector in Dublin, focusing on how linguistic barriers, cultural expectations and the dynamics of subgroups influence staff collaboration and day-to-day coordination. The research employs a qualitative case study at the Arlington Hotel, utilizing four semi-structured interviews—two with managers and two with employees—analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that, particularly during periods of high operational pressure, differences in English proficiency and understanding of accents can affect the clarity of instructions and the confidence to seek clarification. Furthermore, subgroups based on language or nationalities were described as useful in the short term, but with the potential to divide the team in the long term. Managers reported practical adaptation strategies, such as slowing down the pace, demonstrating tasks, checking understanding and using rapid translation at critical moments. It is therefore concluded that integration strategies, well-structured communication practices and language support can reduce misunderstandings and strengthen collaboration in multicultural hotel environments.

Date of Award

2026

Full Publication Date

2026

Access Rights

open access

Document Type

Capstone Project

Resource Type

thesis

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.63227/652.299.162

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Included in

Business Commons

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