UNDERSTANDING WORK RELATED PERCEPTIONS OF CHINESE EXPATRIATES WORKING IN PAKISTAN: A STUDY OF GLOBE CULTURAL LENS

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of Chinese expatriates working in Pakistan regarding the similarities and differences in Pakistani and Chinese work practices, GLOBE cultural dimensions and the challenges faced by Chinese managers to fulfill practice-value gaps perceived between Pak-China value set and Pakistani work practices. The study uses cross-cultural HRM lens as the basis of its conceptual framework using cultural self-representation theory and social identity theory. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews from 16 Chinese managers working in different Chinese organizations across twin cities of Pakistan. After completing interview transcriptions, data were analyzed using the qualitative analysis software; NVivo 10. Findings indicate that Chinese are workaholics and are more professional and punctual in their approach as compared to Pakistanis. Also, they are result and process oriented and they had a greater sense of accountability regarding their decisions. In terms of GLOBE cultural dimensions, Chinese had higher performance orientation and greater uncertainty avoidance as compared to Pakistanis. Chinese followed a long-term approach while Pakistanis were found to work on a short-term future orientation. Both Pakistanis and Chinese were high on power distance dimension. In terms of gender-based task differentiation, individuals belonging to both nationalities followed a non-discriminatory approach. Chinese had greater in-group and institutional collectivism. On the other hand, Pakistanis were higher on in-group collectivism as compared to institutional collectivism orientation. Lastly, there exists a larger gap in Chinese values versus Pakistani practices as compared to Pakistani values versus Pakistani practices. The study contributes in establishing amiable relationships between Pakistanis and Chinese as both need to understand each other’s cultural sensitivities and to adapt themselves accordingly. Implications have been devised for industry, academia and policy makers.