A self-initiated expatriation journey: sequential effects of insider status and work adjustment
Angela Shin-Yih Chen, Guo-Hua LinPurpose
Drawing on conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study aims to examine how cultural intelligence (CQ) helps self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) develop perceived insider status (PIS), achieve overseas work adjustment (WA) and enhance in-role performance (IRP). It also investigates whether perceived organisational support (POS) conditions this resource-building process.
Design/methodology/approach
Two-wave survey data were collected from 568 Taiwanese SIEs working overseas. CQ, PIS and POS were measured at Time 1, while WA and IRP were measured at Time 2. Structural equation modelling (SEM) and latent moderated SEM were combined with Johnson–Neyman analysis, the heterotrait–monotrait ratio and an unrestricted latent marker composite.
Findings
CQ was positively associated with PIS, and PIS was strongly related to WA. The indirect effect of CQ on IRP through PIS and WA was significant, confirming a sequential resource-building process. POS moderated this pathway: high POS amplified CQ’s conversion into adjustment and performance, whereas low POS constrained it. Organisational support, therefore, operates as a critical resource passageway.
Practical implications
Organisations should assess CQ, foster insider inclusion and provide visible support systems, rather than assuming that culturally capable SIEs can adjust independently.
Originality/value
This study extends COR theory by specifying a conditional sequential mechanism linking CQ, PIS, WA and IRP and positioning PIS as an identity-based and relational resource that bridges cultural capability and workplace performance.