Date of Award

2-18-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Pavel Shlossberg

Second Advisor

Dr. Michael Hazel

Abstract

This study analyzed intercultural communication and cross-cultural hurdles between a multinational mining company, “the Company,” and the indigenous Western Shoshone community in Northern Nevada. Standpoint theory, as presented by Wood (2004), was the framework used to analyze the engagement methods utilized by the Company and the local tribal organizations to identify communication barriers between the two groups. This study explored an external perception of the Company and the general mining industry from tribal employees, as well as the unique perspective of those participants who bring a Native American standpoint to their position of employment within the Company. Research data was derived from focus groups of the Company employees of Native American descent and targeted interviews with external Native American stakeholders. The focus group participants varied by departmental function, tenure, and standing across multiple geographic operations, while the interview participants were employed by two different tribal organizations. Focus group and interview data each highlighted a discernable gap in the Company’s current outreach with the local Native American communities and indicated key areas for improvement. Both internal and external participants recommended improvements to the Company’s communications strategy and provided specific examples of culturally effective outreach methods and topics. These disparities originated from differing cultural perspectives and standpoints between the Company and the Native American communities. Through improved dialogue practices and communication outreach, this intercultural relationship can progress.

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