Work to Life conflicts : A comparison of Self-Initiated Expatriates and Assigned Expatriates.

Abstract

International organizations have now more than ever a need for qualified and talented people to successfully grow globally. Thus, companies send employees for international assignments. Therefore, there is an increasing interest on the success of international work experience and well-being of expatriates.

The well-being of expatriates is a considerable factor in the achievement of a successful international work experience abroad. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to provide perspective regarding the impact of work on the personal life comparing two distinct expatriates group: Assigned Expatriates (AEs) and Self-Initiated Expatriates (SIEs). It is presumed that SIEs experience a lower level of WLC in comparison with AEs.

The data set utilised in this study was originally gathered for research purpose by the University of Vaasa. This master’s thesis analysed the data focusing on WLC of AEs and SIEs. Data set (N=291) was collected through an online survey, the questionnaire was sent to the member of the Finnish Union TEK. Then, a sample of the data fitting the criteria of the thesis has been selected for further research.

The findings reveal that AEs are facing a high level of WLC compared to SIEs. Therefore, the hypothesis is supported. On a managerial level, therefore it would be advised to consider the challenges AEs in their WLC and provide a support in order to have a successful international assignment. Moreover, as companies are facing a shortage of qualified and talented employees, it could be considered to hire SIEs during internationalization.

Concerning the limitations, the concept of work-life balance is broad. Therefore, in this thesis it will be narrowed to work to life conflict. Work-life enrichment, life-work conflict and life-work enrichment are excluded from the study. Therefore, further research regarding the other aspects is needed.