Reconciling the conflicting needs for flexibility and certainty : An exploratory study on independent expatriates in China

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature concerning expatriates on overseas assignments. Based on an exploratory study examining the experiences of independent expatriates (IEs) in China, this paper seeks to add to the currently limited understanding of IEs by focusing on the particular issue of IE staff turnover in the Sino‐foreign Higher Education sector. Design/methodology/approach – Using the “Snowball” technique, a questionnaire survey is carried out electronically with 48 completed questionnaires received, representing 18 nationalities residing in 12 countries. A supplementary case study is also conducted on three Chinese institutions offering UK programmes. Findings – This paper presents findings suggesting that IEs in China are more likely to move between jobs in different organisations within a shorter space of time than their counterparts in other countries. Possible contributing factors include the IEs' initial expectations, their experiences in the early stage of relocation, their ability to adapt to the local culture, and contractual arrangements. This paper also suggests that to reconcile the IEs' individual need for flexibility and their employing organisations' need for certainty and continuity, employers should consider taking a number of practical steps, such as language and culture training, shadowing and maintaining accurate written records. Originality/value – This paper is relevant to any Chinese organisation that is relatively inexperienced in employing expatriate staff.