Discuss the role of effective communication in managing a diverse workforce

Assignment Brief

Question 1

Mullins (2016, p73) states that “All organisations have their own individual character, culture and sense of identity, and differ in their attributes, processes and methods of working.” Given these differences, critically discuss the usefulness of studying organisational behaviour.

Question 2

Discuss the role of effective communication in managing a diverse workforce and critically analyse how cultural factors might influence communication patterns in contemporary organisations.

Question 3

Critically discuss how a knowledge and understanding of Belbin’s team roles can help managers in organisations.

Sample Answer

Question 1

Critically discuss the usefulness of studying organisational behaviour.

Studying Organisational Behaviour (OB) helps us understand how people behave within organisations. Mullins (2016) points out that all organisations have their own culture, structure, and ways of working. Because of this, studying OB allows managers and employees to make sense of these differences and improve how organisations function.

One key usefulness of OB is in understanding individual and group behaviour. Theories such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory help managers understand what motivates employees. For example, knowing that employees seek recognition and responsibility can guide managers to design better job roles and reward systems.

Another benefit is in improving leadership and management style. OB explores leadership theories like Transformational Leadership (Bass, 1985), which focuses on inspiring employees, and Transactional Leadership, which is more task-focused. Knowing these approaches helps managers adapt their style to different situations, improving employee engagement.

Organisational behaviour also helps with conflict resolution and teamwork. Tools like Belbin’s Team Roles and Tuckman’s Group Development Model give insight into how teams form, how conflicts arise, and how they can be managed for better collaboration.

Critically, while OB provides valuable insights, it is not always universally applicable. Because each organisation has unique cultural and structural characteristics, models must be adapted to context. For example, what works in a UK-based tech company may not suit a manufacturing firm in Asia. Therefore, OB must be used flexibly, with an understanding of organisational diversity.

In conclusion, OB is useful for managing people, improving leadership, and enhancing organisational performance. Its real value lies in its practical application, when theories are adapted to fit the unique context of each organisation.

Question 2

Discuss the role of effective communication in managing a diverse workforce and critically analyse how cultural factors might influence communication patterns in contemporary organisations.

Effective communication is crucial in managing a diverse workforce, as it ensures clarity, builds trust, and reduces misunderstandings. In diverse teams, employees come from different cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds, which can impact how they interpret messages.

One key role of communication is to create inclusion. When managers communicate openly and clearly, it encourages participation and shows respect for all employees. Tools like active listening, non-verbal cues, and feedback mechanisms help ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

Continued...