An assessment of culture shock experienced by international employees at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
Date
2020
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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.
Description
Masters Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.