CONCEPTUAL PAPER ON THE CAUSAL EFFECTS OF INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES ON EXPATRIATE EFFECTIVENESS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Purpose of the study: To investigate the causal effects of expatriates’ individual differences (measured by Job Insecurity, Personality, and Social Network) on their effectiveness (measured Coping Strategies, Job Performance, and Organizational Citizenship Behavior) in carrying out their responsibility to complete assignments whilst stationed and working in Malaysia. Main Result: This conceptual paper will contribute to the body of knowledge on matters related to expatriates’ services in a cross-cultural and different environment, especially the difficulties they faced, roles played and contribution towards both the host country and the organization that they work for. The research gaps are on Coping Strategies is affecting the expatriate effectiveness and there are a few researches in the Malaysian context. Applications: It is significant to resolve the problem faced by expatriates working and stationed in Malaysia. This paper is important for both current and future development for academics (for theoretical knowledge consolidation), practitioners (for multinational organizations) and the country’s economy. The contribution to the literature on expatriate is by offering new individual variables that are influencing their performance, which could be unique and still relevant to each other, and this consolidates and enriches the literature. Novelty/Originality: This paper provides a better understanding on how the variables work on individual differences and how are they connected to effectiveness. It is also envisaged that the performance can be enhanced and multinationals will improve their profitability and thus contribute to the GDP of the country.