The impact of cross-cultural training for expatriates in a Chinese firm.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the significance of cross-cultural training and career attitudes for expatriation career move in the context of China, whether cross-cultural training is perceived necessary, and the consequence of providing such cross-cultural training.
Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 82 expatriates from a Chinese firm, some of whom were expatriated to a foreign country and others who were expatriated from foreign countries to China.
Findings – Expatriates adjusted well, and having a protean career attitude was a decisive factor. While the impact of cross-cultural training prior to departure was not statistically significant, it was well received and considered important.
Research limitations/implications – A limitation is the limited sample size. Implications are presented for conducting cross-cultural training.
Practical implications – Developing cross-cultural training programs could add value to the firm and its people.
Originality/value – Using a particular Chinese firm the paper highlights the value and necessity of cross-cultural training for successful expatriation.