The exploration study of cognitive styles for Taiwan University graduates’ job hunting in Mainland China

Abstract

Purpose In the context of an economic downturn and three transitions of political power, Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) kick-started the cross-strait mutual trust mechanism, encouraging university graduates to find employment in mainland China’s job market (in both mainland China and Hong Kong). Academia and industry are both paying great attention to this issue. There is still a paucity of discussions about cognitive style with regard to working in mainland China (Macau) Design/methodology/approach This study is based on the Q methodology using a sample of Taiwanese university graduates to explore how behavioral factors relate to cognitive style. Findings This paper defines four cognitive styles based on differences in focus and motivation: lifestyles of health and sustainability (LOHAS), word-of-mouth (WOM), learning/practice match and local market disappointment. Originality/value An association is drawn between cognition theory and psychology’s classification of cognitive style. In the context of the four cognitive styles, this paper explores the practical implications of employment and provides recommendations for those intending to work abroad.