Abstract
In multinational corporations (MNCs), cross-cultural interactions and collaboration are unavoidable. Cultural boundary spanning (CBS) is a behavior that has been shown to reduce conflict and ensure project success. It is a behavior that bridges internal and external organizational boundaries. This study examined if and how CBS functions (behaviors) change across national and cultural boundaries in MNCs. These boundaries were characterized by four demographic groups of people found within MNCs: (a) parent country nationals, (b) host country nationals, (c) third country nationals, and (d) parent country national expats. The findings of this research suggest that any of these demographic groups can perform CBS. Variances in the use of CBS functions between the groups were also identified. These variances seem to be influenced by the strength of the individual’s social networks and the interdependent leadership culture within the MNC.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
International business enterprises; Organizational behavior
Date of Award
2023
School Affiliation
Graziadio Business School
Department/Program
Business
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Masters
Faculty Advisor
Ann Feyerherm
Recommended Citation
Downs, Tamara, "Exploring cultural boundary spanning functions that bridge across national and cultural boundaries in MNCs" (2023). Theses and Dissertations. 1342.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1342