The function of social networks in expatriate effectiveness

Abstract

This study examined the role of social networks in expatriate effectiveness in their overseas assignment. The model in this study proposed that an expatriate's social network in a new culture provides two important functions: cultural information and social support, which in turn influence three aspects of expatriate's effectiveness: adjustment, job satisfaction and job performance. The results showed that the size and closeness of an expatriate's social network are positively related to the amount of social support and cultural information he or she receives respectively. The cultural information facilitates an expatriate's adjustment and job performance, and social support improves expatriate adjustment and job satisfaction. The implication of this study was discussed as well.