Factors affecting international staffing in Chinese multinationals (MNEs)

Abstract

While the existing models explain factors determining approaches to international staffing of multinational enterprises (MNEs) from developed countries, there is little known about MNEs of developing and transforming economies. This qualitative empirical research explores the factors determining international staffing in Chinese MNEs and argues that Western models are generally applicable to the Chinese context. However, the same categories of determining factors have sometimes different underlying meanings or varied contents. Contrary to the prevailing literature, this study shows international experience is a catalytic agent of change rather than a determinate of international staffing approach. Moreover, some factors that have not been much considered in the literature have been evidenced to be important factors affecting international staffing particularly in Chinese MNEs. Further study directions and implications for practitioners are also discussed.

Keywords:

• International human resource management (IHRM)
• international recruitment and selection
• model
• Chinese MNEs

Notes

 1 Source: www.rieti.go.jp/en/index.html (accessed on 5 May 2004).

 2 Source: China International Trading Year Books (1993–2001), China Outward Economy and Trade Press.

 3 www.peacehall.com/news/gb/china/2003/01/200301311609.shtml (accessed on 31 January 2003).