← Search

Human Resource Management 2000

Increasing the skill utilization of expatriates

Daniel C. Feldman1; Mark C. Bolino2

1 University of South Carolina · 2 University of Notre Dame

open access

Abstract

This article examines the utilization, underutilization, and misutilization of expatriate skills in overseas assignments. Using quantitative data from 268 expatriates from six Fortune 500 multinational corporations, the research first examines expatriates' utilization of eight distinct skills and how patterns of skill utilization influence important job attitudes. Then, using qualitative data from the expatriates, the research examines the subsidiary-level, corporate-level, and country- level factors which facilitate (or inhibit) skill utilization. The study highlights the idea that effective skill utilization depends not only on the selection and training of expatriates themselves, but also upon the level of skill and teamwork among host country nationals and the quality of support provided by the MNC as a whole.

DOI
10.1002/1099-050x(200024)39:4<367::aid-hrm7>3.3.co;2-z
Sources
openalex

Cite