An assessment of culture shock experienced by international employees at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

The study was conducted to investigate the culture shock experienced by international employees when adjusting to the work environment of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The qualitative study used in-depth interviews to collect data. A thematic analysis pointed to the following as key learning points from the study: • The importance of providing accommodation to expatriates. • Ensuring consistency in the application of policies. • The importance of an induction programme. • The importance of family involvement when employing expatriates.

In light of this study, it is therefore recommended that the University of KwaZulu- Natal (UKZN) consider the following programmes to assist foreign employees to adjust easily to the new environment:

• UKZN to provide a central office to assist expatriates. • The central office will act as caretaker of all expatriates, ensuring that they are taken care of prior arrival, on arrival and throughout their stay within the institution. • The central office to act as an agent between the expatriates and prospective landlords. • The central office to work closely with the Human resources department in facilitating ensuring the family involvement.