Title: The Relationship Between Team Leadership and Virtual Teams in Multinational Corporations – A Case Study of Microsoft
Author: Zhao Cunran
Advisor: Dr. Zhang Li
Degree: Master of Business Administration
Major: International Business Management
Faculty: บัณฑิตวิทยาลัย (Graduate School)
Academic year: 2566 (2023)
Published: 2nd National and International Academic Conference on Innovation and Management for Sustainable 15-16 December 2020 (pp.80-96) คลิก PDF
Abstract
In the contemporary business environment, the rise of virtual teams has been a significant development, especially within multinational corporations (MNCs) such as Microsoft. However, there is a notable gap in understanding the specific dynamics of the relationship between team leadership and virtual teams in the context of large technology MNCs like Microsoft. One significant problem is the inefficiency in managing cross-cultural teams, leading to decreased productivity and employee engagement. The objectives of the study were: 1) To identify key leadership qualities that contribute to the success of virtual teams, 2) To analyze the challenges faced by leaders in managing virtual teams across different cultures.
The theoretical foundation of this study is based on the Transformational Leadership Theory, applied to virtual teams in multinational corporations. The mixed research methodology combined quantitative (Questionnaire) and qualitative (Interviews) approaches, offering a comprehensive view of leadership dynamics. A total of 500 questionnaires was distributed electronically via Microsoft’s internal communication platforms.380 responses were received, yielding a response rate of 76%. After screening, 350 were deemed valid (92% of responses), with 30 responses discarded due to incomplete data or inconsistencies. 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted.
The findings indicate that 1) Transformational leadership qualities, which include effective communication and motivation, significantly contribute to virtual team success, 2) Challenges in managing cultural diversity, including communication barriers and varied work ethics, were identified as critical areas for leader focus. These findings provide valuable insights into effective leadership strategies in virtual team settings within multinational corporations.
The study explores the leadership dynamics in Microsoft’s virtual teams, emphasizing the importance of transformational leadership qualities such as effective communication and motivation. It identifies challenges in managing cultural diversity and highlights transformational leadership as the most effective style for boosting team performance and satisfaction. The findings offer practical strategies for leaders to enhance productivity and engagement in multicultural virtual team settings.
Keywords: virtual teams, leadership styles, multinational corporations, transformational leadership
The Relationship Between Team Leadership and Virtual Teams in Multinational Corporations – A Case Study of Microsoft
6217195416 Zhao Cunran 2566 (2023) The Relationship Between Team Leadership and Virtual Teams in Multinational Corporations – A Case Study of Microsoft สารนิพนธ์ (Independent Study), Advisor: Dr. Zhang Li, ปริญญาโท (Master’s Degree), บัณฑิตวิทยาลัย (Graduate School), Master of Business Administration, International Business Management, Bangkok: Siam University
Academic Year 2023, Graduate School 2023, IMBA, IMBA 2023, Independent Study, Independent Study 2023, Master of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration (International Program) 2023, Master of Business Administration 2023, ปริญญาโท (Master’s Degree), บัณฑิตวิทยาลัย (Graduate School), Master of Business Administration,International Business Management