International careers of Indian workers in Tokyo: Examination and future directions

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the need for new conceptualizations to explain international career behaviors emerging from increasing international migration flows.

Design/methodology/approach

The career diversity and growth of Indian knowledge workers in Tokyo is estimated through the analysis of secondary data and previous qualitative studies.

Findings

The shortage of skills in IT and liberalization of migration policies is enabling diverse international career development. Individuals' career stories are suggested as a key to understand differences in career behavior.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies with more concrete data on employment, larger samples and comparison with different international career patterns will enhance understanding of international careers.

Practical implications

Individuals with international careers are potentially beneficial for organizations, but diverse career behaviors demand adaptable support systems. Using career stories is suggested as a suitable strategy to understand individual priorities and values.

Originality/value

The paper bridges the gap between research on careers, IHRM and highly skilled migration.

Citation

Agullo, B. and Egawa, M. (2009), "International careers of Indian workers in Tokyo: Examination and future directions", Career Development International, Vol. 14 No. 2, pp. 148-168. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620430910950755