Interpersonal affect and host country national support of expatriates: An investigation in China

Abstract

Host country nationals (HCNs) play a critical role in the successful adjustment of expatriates in a new location, yet their support cannot be taken for granted. This empirical study was designed to examine the role played by HCNs’ collectivism, and interpersonal affect towards expatriate colleagues, in determining the degree to which Chinese HCNs would be willing to offer role information and social support to expatriates from India and the USA. We conducted a between-subjects simulation (N=402) with junior executives from four joint venture multinational companies operating in China. Results indicated the interpersonal affect felt by Chinese HCNs mediates the relationship between the collectivism levels of Chinese HCNs, and their willingness to offer role information and social support to expatriates. Implications for practice and research are discussed.