The role of cultural differences in group formation in a public organisation’s work environment : A qualitative study based of the cleaning service industry in the public sector

Abstract: Abstract  Background   Demographic changes pose a challenge to the labour market as to how to wisely and effectively implement a diversity management policy. As the Statistics Sweden (n.d.) statistics for 2021 show, just over 90 000 people migrated to Sweden. The migration of people from different cultures to Sweden on such a scale brings with it a high demand for work. The new workforce in the labour market is created by many groups of different cultures. Therefore, it is worth increasing the interest in deepening knowledge in the field of the role of cultural differences in group formation.   Purpose  This research purpose is to explore the role of cultural differences in group formation in a public organisation’s work environment.  Method  The study is based on a qualitative approach. The study was conducted in the environment of eight managers working in the cleaning industry in the public sector. The qualitative method chosen for this study is face-to-face interviews with respondents.   Result  The cleaning industry has a high rate of diversity in its work environment. This is related to the clash of cultural differences in the work environment.  Cultural differences and language barriers lead to the emergence of conflicts in the work environment.  Conclusions  Cultural differences in the workplace can lead to misunderstandings and doubts. The consequence of this may be disruptions in communication in the work environment, which in turn may affect the process of group formation. In a well-managed organisation, cultural differences might have a positive impact on the work environment. They enrich the organisational culture and foster understanding and tolerance. So far, the standardisation of behaviour of people from a given culture did not take into account individual factors that may affect individual behaviour despite the same beliefs and habits. This study shows the benefits of developing a cross-cultural management approach with the participation of individuals. Modern solutions for managing cultural differences should take into account diversity, interculturality, and individuality.