Cross-cultural professional experiences of female expatriates

2019 ◽  
Vol 26 (4) ◽  
pp. 522-545 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tami France ◽  
Lize Booysen ◽  
Carol Baron
Keyword(s):  
Mainland China ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Cultural Leadership ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Professional Experiences ◽  
Sequential Mixed Methods ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Uk

Purpose In this world of global interconnectedness, women continue to develop cross-cultural careers and their experiences impact global scholarship and practice. The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationships, resources and characteristics that support female expatriate success, with specific focus on the role of mentor/coach relationships. The sample included 102 women from the USA, Canada, Australia and the UK working or formerly working in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan. Design/methodology/approach This three phase sequential mixed-methods exploratory research study included 10 one-on-one semi-structured interviews, 102 survey respondents and 3 facilitated focus groups attended by nine professional women. Findings This research offers evidence that resiliency-based characteristics must be cultivated and developed to support expatriate cross-cultural success. These characteristics can be cultivated through relying on multiple relationships, such as mentors, coaches, host country liaisons, expatriate colleagues, friends and family as well as by supporting and mentoring others. These characteristics can also be developed through specific cultural experiences, knowledge and skill building resources, as well as developing an informed view of self and identity clarity through reflective activities. Originality/value Based on the overall findings, a cross-cultural professional success model was designed and implications for scholarship, organizational effectiveness and cross-cultural leadership practice are presented.

They teach, but do they apply?

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 743-766
Author(s):  
Anete Petrusch ◽  
Guilherme Luís Roehe Vaccaro ◽  
Juliane Luchese
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Additional Data ◽  
Effective Sample Size ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Lean Thinking ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Administrative Services ◽  
The Usa ◽  
And Performance ◽  
The Uk

Purpose Although discussed for more than 20 years, information about Lean adoption in higher education institutions (HEIs) is scarce, especially in developing countries. This research aims to investigate the degree of Lean thinking adoption on administrative services of Brazilian private HEIs. The results are compared to studies from USA and UK, highlighting the maturity on enablers, principles, tools and performance measures related to Lean. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative survey research was carried out. The instrument is adapted for HEIs from the proposal of Malmbrandt and Åhlström (2013) for Lean services. Cronbach’s alpha and factor analysis were used to validate the adapted instrument. Additional data analysis was based on non-parametric tests. Findings No evidence of broad implementation of Lean thinking in administrative processes of Brazilian private HEIs was found, with the adoption being incipient. The results are convergent to those presented by other studies in the USA and the UK. There is a gap between the existing knowledge about Lean in the academic sphere of the HEIs and its application on their academic processes. Research limitations/implications The effective sample size was of 47, despite contacts being sent to 2,090 institutions. This sample allows exploratory research, although further research is required. Results are adherent to those found in research from other countries. Originality/value The research presents descriptive and exploratory results regarding the adoption of Lean in Brazilian HEIs. No previous similar research was found in the literature.

Organised crime goes online: realities and challenges

2015 ◽  
Vol 18 (2) ◽  
pp. 153-168 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anita Lavorgna
Keyword(s):  
Law Enforcement ◽  
Organised Crime ◽  
Research Field ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Internet Crime ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Police Records ◽  
The Uk

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to provide an empirically based description of how the Internet is exploited by different types of organised crime groups (OCGs), ranging from Italian mafia-style groups to looser gangs. Design/methodology/approach – The article relies on a dataset collected from mid-2011 to mid-2013 and, specifically, on semi-structured interviews to law enforcement officials and acknowledged experts in Italy, the UK, the USA and The Netherlands; judicial transcripts; police records; and media news. Findings – This article provides an account of the main scope for which the Internet has been used for various criminal activities traditionally associated with the organised crime rhetoric, first and foremost, cross-border trafficking activities. This study also discusses some current legal and policy approaches to deal with OCGs operating online. Originality/value – This contribution addresses an under-investigated research field and aims to foster a reflection on the opportunity to integrate Internet crime research, and even more Internet crime investigations, into the everyday routines of criminologists, analysts and law enforcement officers.

The role of citizens in DRR planning exercises: when to inform or consult

2017 ◽  
Vol 8 (02) ◽  
pp. 209-222 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Kornakova ◽  
Alan March
Keyword(s):  
Urban Planning ◽  
Hurricane Katrina ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Community Involvement ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Participation Styles ◽  
The Uk

Purpose The purpose of this research paper is to explore the role and effectiveness of particular participation styles that affect the effectiveness of urban planning being integrated with disaster risk reduction (DRR) practices. Design/methodology/approach This research was conducted using a heuristic approach to the examination of urban planning and DRR practices focussing particularly upon citizens’ participation in four case studies internationally: the UK floods in 2007; Hurricane Katrina in the USA in 2005; wildfires of 2009 in Victoria, Australia; and Swiss avalanche prevention and preparedness. Desktop research was conducted to analyse cases and identify key findings, confirmed and augmented by interviews with relevant specialists in each country through semi-structured interviews. Findings The research reveals some similarities across all four cases studied. It appears that urban planning and DRR approaches, particularly those with a regulatory outcome and based on highly technical tests, are common. Further, it is apparent in the cases studied that circumstances where deeper technical knowledge and/or self-interest are strong factors, that informing and sometimes consulting styles are the most appropriate. While the scope of the paper means that this principle cannot be widely applied, there is a need to investigate these issues further. Research limitations/implications The heuristic and inductive nature of this research limits the potential for in-depth analyses of the case studies, but rather provides a base for future research in this area, which currently has limited literature. Originality/value This study provides a wide base for future research and partially addresses the gap in the literature on the topic of integration of urban planning and DRR with a focus on the community involvement in it.

Status or fun? A cross-cultural examination of young consumers’ responses to images of champagne and sparkling wine

2016 ◽  
Vol 118 (8) ◽  
pp. 1960-1975 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natalia Velikova ◽  
Steve Charters ◽  
Joanna Fountain ◽  
Caroline Ritchie ◽  
Nicola Fish ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cultural Values ◽  
Cultural Context ◽  
Product Category ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Sparkling Wine ◽  
Cultural Variation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Uk ◽  
The Impact

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to test Luna and Gupta’s (2001) investigative framework on the interaction of cultural values and consumer behaviour by conducting a cross-cultural comparison of young wine consumers’ interpretation of images of champagne and sparkling wine. The research examined consumer responses to the images through the prism of the relationship between symbolism, ritual and myth, as well as other related values. Design/methodology/approach – In a series of focus groups with consumers from four anglophone countries (the USA, New Zealand, Australia and the UK), six images of champagne and sparkling wine were used as stimuli to encourage affective and cognitive perspectives on the topic. Findings – Overall, the UK market showed distinct differences from the other markets, due very much to its cultural context. The UK consumers valued traditional advertising; focused mainly on the product itself; and did not associate champagne with fun. Respondents from the New World focused on the general impression of the image and on enjoyment and fun associated with consumption of champagne and sparkling wine. Practical implications – The most crucial implication of this research is the cultural variation in consumer perceptions of champagne and sparkling wine and the impact that it has upon marketing strategies on how to market this product category to younger consumers in different markets. Originality/value – This research contributes to the study of cultural values and consumption behaviour, as well as image effectiveness in forming perceptions of the product category.

scholarly journals Mitigating risk: mediating transition through the enactment of information literacy practices

2019 ◽  
Vol 75 (5) ◽  
pp. 1190-1210 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alison Hicks
Keyword(s):  
Grounded Theory ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Literacy Practices ◽  
Language Learner ◽  
Photo Elicitation ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Learner Engagement ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Uk

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the emergent grounded theory of mitigating risk, which was produced through an analysis of the information literacy practices of English-speakers who are learning a language overseas as part of their undergraduate degree.Design/methodology/approachThe grounded theory emerges from a qualitative study that was framed by practice theory and transitions theory, and employed constructivist grounded theory, semi-structured interviews and photo-elicitation methods to explore the information activities of 26 language-learners from Australia, Canada, the UK and the USA.FindingsThe grounded theory of mitigating risk illustrates how academic, financial and physical risks that are produced through language-learner engagement overseas catalyse the enactment of information literacy practices that enable students to mediate their transition overseas.Research limitations/implicationsThis study’s theory-building is localised and contextual rather than generalisable.Practical implicationsThe grounded theory broadens librarians’ and language-educators’ knowledge of student activities during immersive educational experiences as well as extending understanding about the shape that information literacy takes within transition to a new intercultural context.Social implicationsThe grounded theory develops understanding about the role that local communities play within intercultural transition and how these groups can respond to and prepare for increasingly fluid patterns of global movement.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to an increasingly sophisticated theoretical conceptualisation of information literacy while further providing a detailed exploration of transition from an information perspective.

Investigating work-integrated learning and its relevance to skills development in degree apprenticeships

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (5) ◽  
pp. 767-781
Author(s):  
Iro Konstantinou ◽  
Elizabeth Miller
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Professional Identity ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Integrated Learning ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Government ◽  
Work Integrated Learning ◽  
Public And Private Sector ◽  
The Uk

PurposePrevious research suggests that higher education provision, the government's knowledge-based economic agenda and the attributes employers look for in graduates are not always aligned, leading to a skill shortage and the production of graduates who are not “work ready”. Degree apprenticeships (DAs) are well placed to address this gap because employers are involved in both the design and delivery of higher education and work with higher education institutions (HEIs) to develop the skills both parties believe graduates need through work-integrated learning (WIL). This paper will address how DAs can be utilised to that purpose.Design/methodology/approachThis paper draws on data collected from students, ranging from their first to final years, enrolled in the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) programme at a higher education provider in London, UK. The national context of the UK is crucial both because of how DAs have been introduced by the government; how the pedagogical implications defer from other national contexts and work based provision and also because there are clear contrasts in how the private and public sector in the UK are “using” degree apprentices. The authors adopted an exploratory research design using semi-structured interviews and focus groups.FindingsThe authors argue that a reflective approach in assessed coursework, in conjunction with an explicit focus on the skill development of students, can enhance the experience of degree apprentices completing WIL modules. The authors highlight the potential of WIL modules in advancing the ability of degree apprentices to reflect on their practice while they are working and studying, a process which can have long- term benefits to their professional identity. The authors draw attention to the affordances given to apprentices to develop their professional identity drawing comparisons between the public and private sector in the UK.Originality/valueThis paper adds to the work on DAs and WIL currently being undertaken in the UK. By exploring the case study of a cohort of DAs engaging in productive reflection with regards to the skills they develop at the workplace and in the classroom, the authors point to a way in which module development can integrate such reflective elements.

Evolution of international and Chinese anti-bribery and corruption compliance programs

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 437-451 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen Schonfelder ◽  
S. Ramakrishna Velamuri ◽  
Wilson Liu
Keyword(s):  
Multinational Corporations ◽  
International Organizations ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Regulatory Frameworks ◽  
Compliance Programs ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Uk ◽  
High Level

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the regulatory framework in China and the extent to which Chinese multinationals have implemented and disclosed their anti-bribery and corruption (ABC) compliance practices. This is done against the backdrop of the evolving international ABC compliance standards. Design/methodology/approach This study is based on detailed reviews of the ABC compliance standards of international organizations; legislation passed by the USA, the UK and Chinese Governments; seven semi-structured interviews with leading experts in the field; and comparisons of ABC program disclosures of four Chinese with four best-in-class western multinational corporations. Findings A high level of convergence was found in the ABC standards published by the international organizations. Several positive features were found in the Chinese ABC regulatory frameworks but our findings indicate that there is minimal disclosure around ABC compliance program practices. This paper shows that a transparent disclosure would represent an easy win for Chinese multinational corporations and contribute to raising their reputations internationally. Research limitations/implications While there are numerous studies in the law literature on ABC compliance standards and the extent to which they are effective in achieving their objectives, this is an emergent area in management research, to which our study makes a contribution. Future research could explore how other emerging economies are tackling this important issue. Practical implications By proactively adopting ABC compliance practices, corporations can seize the ethical high ground and build solid reputations with their stakeholders. Originality/value It is believed that this study is the first academic study that compares Chinese and international ABC standards.

scholarly journals Talent management and retention strategies in luxury hotels: evidence from four countries

2019 ◽  
Vol 31 (10) ◽  
pp. 3855-3878 ◽  
Author(s):  
Evangelia Marinakou ◽  
Charalampos Giousmpasoglou
Keyword(s):  
Succession Planning ◽  
Talent Management ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Retention Strategies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Luxury Hotels ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Talent Retention ◽  
The Individual ◽  
The Uk

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide a definition of talent and talent management in the luxury hotel sector with a focus on talent retention strategies. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was used and 27 face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers in luxury hotels in four countries (the USA, the UK, Australia and Greece). Findings Talent refers to those who “go above and beyond”. Talent retention strategies in luxury hotels include a friendly, family-oriented and open access culture, teamwork, compensation, succession planning and training and development. A hybrid exclusive and inclusive approach to talent management (TM) is proposed with the implicit engagement of the individuals. Practical implications Luxury hotels should choose TM practices that fit the organizational culture with a focus on retention strategies that are tailor-made to the individual or groups of individuals. Opportunities to progress, succession planning and employee participation to TM are valued in the industry. Originality/value This study provides findings from empirical comparative research conducted in four different countries, whereas most published work on TM focuses on bibliographic reviews. It provides a conceptualization of talent and TM. This study frames the nature of TM in hotels and advances the knowledge of talent retention strategies found to be effective in hospitality.

International pharmacy students’ transition to Nottingham: Semi-structured interviews (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yicong Liu
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Teaching Style ◽  
Cultural Adjustment ◽  
Independent Study ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Pharmacy Students ◽  
Learning Ability ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
International Pharmacy ◽  
The Uk

BACKGROUND The transition from China to the UK can be challenging, and there is increasing concern among academics since cross-cultural learning and living may be a challenge for these students. OBJECTIVE To find out international pharmacy students’ worries and challenges as well as benefits on the transition experience from China to the UK. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were used to explore this group of students’ transition experiences. Selective transcription was done because of time limitations in the project. RESULTS The natural and cultural environment was the most pleasant experience for Tianjin students during this transition process. Cross-cultural adjustment and self-adaptability, as well as their autonomous learning ability were the main barriers for international students. CONCLUSIONS The difference between Asian and Western culture caused barriers for international students to fit into a new environment. In terms of integrating into local students, insufficient English language skills, culture shock and personality could be the influence factors. Moreover, the different teaching style and learning style could be the possible reasons for students having difficulty in an independent study. CLINICALTRIAL N/A

“There is still a perception that homelessness is a housing problem”: devolution, homelessness and health in the UK

2016 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 33-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martin Whiteford ◽  
Glenn Simpson
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Homeless People ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Issue Salience ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Healthcare Provision ◽  
Policy And Practice ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Comparative Policy

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an exploratory account of the links between devolution, homelessness and health in the UK. Specifically, it focusses on the policy context and governance structures that shape the systems of healthcare for homeless people in London, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Design/methodology/approach Empirically the paper draws on semi-structured interviews with a small sample of policy and practice actors from the devolved territories. Qualitative interviews were supplemented by a comparative policy analysis of the homelessness and health agenda within the devolved regions. Theoretically, it takes inspiration from Chaney’s concept of the “issue salience of homelessness” and explores the comparative character of healthcare as pertains to homeless people across the devolved territories. Findings The paper provides clear evidence of areas of divergence and convergence in policy and practice between the devolved regions. These features are shown to be strongly mediated by the interplay of two factors: first, the scope and scale of national and local homelessness prevention strategies; and second, intra-national variation in public health responses to homelessness. Originality/value The paper offers considerable insight from a comparative policy perspective into the nature of healthcare provision for homeless people in the devolved regions.

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