Emotional intelligence, social competencies and cultural adjustment of expatriates in Malaysia: the mediating role of self-motivation

Abstract

Emotional intelligence and social competencies are a few constructs that predict the cultural adjustment of expatriates. There is a dearth of studies that explored the impact of emotional intelligence and social competencies on the cultural adjustment of expatriates in Malaysia. Hence, this study focusses on the relationship between emotional intelligence and social competencies on cultural adjustment of expatriates. Additionally, the mediation role of self-motivation was examined. This quantitative study used a cross-sectional survey to collect primary data. Random sampling was used to collect data from a sample of 301 expatriates. Questionnaires were sent either by hand or electronically. This study used PLS SEM to estimate the model. The results pointed out that emotional intelligence and social competencies are essential predictors of cultural adjustment. The results also revealed the mediating role of self-motivation. The findings added to the current body of knowledge and presented new insights into the contribution of emotional intelligence and social competencies towards cultural adjustment of expatriates. Based on the findings, organizations and HR managers involved in managing expatriates for global assignment can implement policies and processes to select and prepare the right expatriates for global assignments.