Affective networks, informal ties, and the limits of expatriate effectiveness
Horak, S. & Yang, I. 2016. Affective networks, informal ties, and the limits of
expatriate effectiveness. International Business Review, 25(5), 1030-1042.
DOI:
10.1016/j.ibusrev.2016.01.006
Link:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ibusrev.2016.01.006
Abstract
Expatriate effectiveness research has so far rarely taken into account the
influence of social networks on expatriate performance and adjustment. Likewise,
antecedents of social networks remain poorly understood. We fill this research
gap by exploring the situation of expatriates in South Korea. Based on expert
interview data, we have discovered seven antecedents critical to expatriate
effectiveness. Most antecedents hinder expatriate effectiveness due to the
expatriates’ inability to become a part of so-called Yongo networks, a
distinctive type of social tie in South Korea that is to a great extent
determined by birth. As a consequence, it is in particular expatriates’
relational performance and interaction adjustment that is negatively influenced
by Yongo. Based on the South Korean case, this study advises future research to
more deeply study the nature and characteristics of the local social context, in
particular affective ties, and extend research on expatriate effectiveness in
this important dimension. Finally, we discuss practical implications important
for multinational corporations and provide suggestions on how to better cope
with exclusive informal social networks while on an assignment abroad.
Keywords
Expatriation, expatriate effectiveness, informal social networks, Yongo, South
Korea