Building Effective Motivation Methods for Self-Initiated and Assigned Expatriates

Abstract

In recent years, expatriation has increased remarkably due to internationalization. Job mobility becomes popular among multinational corporations (MNCs). In order to manage expatriates more effectively and encourage them for better performance, understanding their intentions and motivations of working abroad is necessary. Since different types of expatriates have different intentions and motivations towards the international assignment, MNCs are recommended to customise the motivation ways to different expatriates.

This master’s thesis focuses on investigating the intentions of both assigned expatriates and self-initiated expatriates accepting the international assignment, and their motivations during expatriation. It is to examine the physical and psychological needs of expatriates when they are attending the expatriate assignment. From expatriates’ point of view, what MNCs currently provided is enough to support their stay or not, as well as what expatriates expect to have more assistance from corporations. Appropriate motivation methods can encourage expatriates for better performance and retain talents.

Data used in this study was collected from nine individuals from different MNCs and nationalities. The data was gathered by semi-structured interviews. All participants were all from Asia. The results were analyzed according to the theoretical framework.

The findings indicate that good and considerate relocation package is an effective way to motivate expatriates. Though self-initiated expatriates are not given any assistance for relocation, if MNCs could provide help upon their arrival, expatriates would be thankful for the arrangement and repay to the company. The destination of an international assignment is also an inducement for expatriates to accept the expatriate assignment, which is uncontrollable by the company.