Performing in a multi-cultural context: The role of personality

• Published in: International journal of intercultural relations Vol. 33; no. 6; pp. 475 - 485
• Main Authors: Burke, Michael J., Watkins, Marla Baskerville, Guzman, Eduardo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01-11-2009
• Subjects: Academic Achievement; Attitudes; Cross-cultural adjustment; Foreign Students; Mexico; Organizational Behavior; Personality; Cross-cultural adjustment; Performance; Personality
• ISSN: 0147-1767; 1873-7552
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijintrel.2009.05.005

Performance in situations where individuals from multiple countries are operating in a foreign culture is an underexplored domain of organizational behavior. We test hypothesized relationships between Big Five personality factors and dimensions of international performance using a sample of 232 international business students from 14 countries studying in Mexico. The results indicate differential relationships between personality factors and performance dimensions that emphasize interacting with host nationals and students from other countries, adjusting to a foreign environment, and maintaining a positive attitude in a foreign country. We discuss theoretical and practical implications for understanding and influencing performance in multi-cultural contexts.