Developing future leaders: the role of cultural intelligence and cross-cultural experiences during international assignment.

Abstract

Experience in the international assignment is a significant opportunity for staff working in multinational companies. Analysing experiences of 8 mid-level managers and above for their cultural intelligence levels; motivational CQ (drive), cognitive CQ (knowledge), meta-cognitive CQ (strategy) and behavioral CQ (action), are utilized during each stage of the international assignment: preparation stage, assignment stage, and repatriation stage. This research studies how those experiences develop the dynamic cross-cultural competencies through cross-cultural experiences and related personal characteristics that effectively impact on work performance to be future leaders. The results suggest the companies to provide intensive preparation training both language and cultural aspects for the staff to reduce unnecessary barriers.