Towards inclusion of English-speaking employees - Examining the intersection of language and employee experience at OP Financial Group

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Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

School of Business | Master's thesis

Authors

Date

2024

Department

Johtamisen laitos

Major/Subject

Mcode

Degree programme

People Management and Organizational Development

Language

en

Pages

88 + 8

Series

Abstract

This case study examines the language-related experiences of English-speaking employees at OP Financial Group and how these experiences influence their broader employee experience within the organization. The term "English-speaking employees" is defined as individuals who do not speak Finnish or Swedish, that is, Finland’s two national languages, but use English as their working language at OP Financial Group. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, observations, and an anonymous survey, the research explores the experiences of these employees in a predominantly Finnish-speaking workplace. The findings reveal that language barriers often lead to organizational and interpersonal exclusion, impacting access to information, career development, and social integration. At the same time, the research highlights "grey areas" where inclusion and exclusion coexist in complex and sometimes contradictory ways, such as in hybrid language practices or the emotional tensions created by language adjustments. The study also emphasizes the active role of English-speaking employees in managing these challenges through coping strategies, which are strongly influenced by the availability of workplace resources. Resources such as inclusive leadership, translation tools, and social support can act as enablers, fostering positive iterative cycles that can enhance engagement, inclusion, and overall job satisfaction. Through a dynamic framework, the study illustrates how language- related experiences and workplace resources work together to shape the employee experience. The findings contribute to research on language-sensitive international business and the growing field of employee experience, providing practical insights for localized organizations aiming to foster inclusion in multilingual environments.

Description

Thesis advisor

Piekkari, Rebecca

Keywords

language-related experiences, employee experience, language practices, inclusion

Other note

Citation

Permanent link to this item

https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202501191406

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[gradu] Kauppakorkeakoulu / BIZ