THE MULTICULTURAL TEAMS IN BRAZILIAN SUBSIDIARIES OF MULTINATIONAL COMPANIES: A MULTIPLE CASE STUDY

The aim of this paper was to analyze the intercultural challenges of daily life and the results of the work of multicultural teams in three Brazilian subsidiaries. The research was qualitative analysis of official documents and interviews with 33 Brazilians and foreigners. Despite the difficulties of the beginning of the coexistence phase, considered more difficult, multicultural teams were able to establish a routine with the productive exchange of experiences and knowledge. The team’s work involved overcoming the meeting with the different things, communication problems because of difficulties with the language, the lack of harmony and rhythm of work and effort required to perform activities together. Therefore, the organizational culture with a global focus has been fundamental to the three companies manage the challenges presented to the teams. Also, the relevance of Brazilian subsidiaries in the global context, the international human resources management and aspects of Brazilian culture contribute to the integration of the teams.