Language and identity: The dynamics of linguistic clustering in multinational enterprises

Research on language diversity in international business has shown that language is a core element of one's social identity and employees in MNEs often form homophily-based clusters with those who share their native language. Such clusters can significantly influence communication and knowledge...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of world business : JWB 2024-06, Vol.59 (4), p.101541, Article 101541
Main Authors: Kalra, Komal, Danis, Wade
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Gender
Identity
Language
Language-based clusters
Regional dialects
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Summary:Research on language diversity in international business has shown that language is a core element of one's social identity and employees in MNEs often form homophily-based clusters with those who share their native language. Such clusters can significantly influence communication and knowledge sharing processes within MNEs. However, research assumes that language-based clusters are monolithic in nature. In this study of two MNE headquarters in India, we develop a model to depict the dynamic processes by which language intersects with other salient identity attributes such as gender, regional dialects, and education to change the composition of language-based clusters and alter group dynamics and organizational processes.
ISSN:1090-9516
DOI:10.1016/j.jwb.2024.101541