Vol: 5, Issue: 3 2015

Page: 18-33

Elaborating the Need of Cross-Cultural Training for Working in Cross-Cultural Contexts

Dr Hsiu Ching Ko

Adopting a qualitative, in-depth interview approach, this study aims to explore factors which can best address the need of cross-cultural training for effectively working overseas. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews from 15 Taiwanese expatriate managers. The results yield three themes found to be critical factors which can demonstrate that cross-cultural training is worth the investment by multinational corporations. This study makes a contribution to the international human resource management on addressing the importance and need of cross-cultural training for the effectiveness of expatriate managers by adding the perspectives of non-Western expatriate managers. The results recommend that multinational corporations should incorporate the development of cultural awareness, interpersonal communication skills, and English ability into cross-cultural training programs both in the stages of pre-departure and pos-arrival.