Examining the Impact of Cross-Cultural Traini...

Examining the Impact of Cross-Cultural Training (CCT) on Expatriate Cultural Adjustment and Job Performance: A Comprehensive Review

Author Name : Erni Tanius, Nadhima Parvin Mohamad Abdulla, Nurin Sabrina Shahperi

ABSTRACT Cross-cultural training (CCT) plays an essential role in determining the success or failure of expatriates in their international assignments. It is critical to enhance expatriates' understanding of cultural diversity and foster crosscultural competence, ultimately improving their ability to navigate and work effectively in diverse environments in the host countries, besides enhancing their skills and adaptability to the new work environment. Hence, this paper aims to present a comprehensive literature review focusing on the impact of CCT on expatriates' cultural adjustment and performance. The review encompassed an analysis of 47 peer-reviewed articles exploring the impact of CCT on expatriates' cultural adjustment and job performance. The findings revealed that the CCT had a significant impact on the cultural adjustment of expatriates. The critical components of cultural adjustment identified by literature are cultural intelligence, cultural awareness, cultural diversity, cultural experience, and cultural distance. Moreover, the literature indicated an impact on expatriates' job performance. CCT serves as an intervention, assisting expatriates in overcoming workplace challenges and improving their knowledge and abilities, enabling them to navigate and function successfully in the workplace. Based on these results, the paper recommends that MNCs prioritise providing CCT for their expatriates. This proactive approach ensures the success of international assignments by facilitating expatriates' cultural adjustment and optimising their performance in host countries.