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1 – 10 of over 16000Asunción Beerli-Palacio and Josefa D. Martín-Santana
This paper aims to analyse the influence of the cultural sensitivity of tourists on the change in image that occurs for tourist destinations prior to and after a visit;…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to analyse the influence of the cultural sensitivity of tourists on the change in image that occurs for tourist destinations prior to and after a visit; understanding cultural sensitivity as the recognition of and respect for different beliefs, values and customs.
Design/methodology/approach
A structural equations model is carried out with a representative sample of 411 tourists from Tenerife (Canary Islands).
Findings
Cultural sensitivity directly and positively influences the gap in the global image of the destination, so greater cultural sensitivity improves the post-visit image compared to the pre-visit image at a global level. Likewise, there are significant differences in cultural sensitivity according to the sociodemographic characteristics of tourists.
Research limitations
Although this study is based on a single case (Tenerife) and the generalisation of the results must be treated tentatively, the developed model could be applied in other destinations.
Practical implications
This study contributes to a better understanding of the influence of cultural sensitivity on the image gap in tourist destinations, as there is still little empirical evidence on the subject.
Originality/value
The results of this study represent an advance in the literature, as there are few studies in the tourism marketing literature that studied the effect of the cultural sensitivity on the image of a tourist destination.
Objetivo
El presente trabajo tiene por objeto analizar la influencia de la sensibilidad cultural de los turistas en el cambio de imagen de un destino turístico pre y post-visita, entendiendo por sensibilidad cultural el reconocimiento y el respeto a las creencias, los valores y las costumbres diferentes.
Diseño/metodología
Se utilizó un Modelo de Ecuaciones Estructurales con una muestra representativa de 411 turistas de Tenerife (Islas Canarias).
Hallazgos
La sensibilidad cultural influye directa y positivamente en el gap de la imagen global del destino, por lo que la mayor sensibilidad cultural mejora la imagen post-visita frente a la imagen pre-visita a nivel global. Igualmente, se observan diferencias significativas en la sensibilidad cultural en función de las características sociodemográficas de los turistas.
Limitaciones de la investigación
Dado que este estudio se basa en un único caso (Tenerife), lo cual afecta a la generalización de los resultados, el modelo desarrollado podría aplicarse a otros destinos.
Implicaciones prácticas
Este trabajo contribuye a una major comprensión de la influencia de la sensibilidad cultural en el gap de la imagen de un destino turístico, ya que todavía hay poca evidencia empírica sobre el tema.
Originalidad/valor
Los resultados de este trabajo representan un avance en la literatura ya que existen pocos trabajos en la literatura de marketing turístico que estudien el efecto de la sensibilidad cultural en la imagen de un destino turístico.
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Clare D’Souza, Stephen Singaraju, Tariq Halimi and Gillian Sillivan Mort
The purpose of this paper is to identify themes on international experiences that impact culture and how these findings will intervene in understanding cross-cultural training…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify themes on international experiences that impact culture and how these findings will intervene in understanding cross-cultural training programs. Thereby an attempt is made to: evaluate cross-cultural insensitivity influences on cross-cultural shock and willingness to adapt, identify cultural impressions over a short overseas period, provide some insights on cross-cultural training that will improve training practices for cross-cultural assignments.
Design/methodology/approach
A diary method was used to analyze the data using NVivo. This research uses diary studies because they have been popular in identifying factors that influence learners to learn, as well as found to be productive to achieve short term experiences. They allow for in-depth analysis, uncovering several findings unlike observation and interviews that cannot reach. In addition, diary text is said to give information on areas of social reality that are not contained in the text. Following this the study used the theme category frequencies to enable us to undertake non-parametric testing of contingency tables.
Findings
Several descriptors were identified in this study; the χ2-test indicates that there is a difference in cultural shock experiences on negative cultural sensitivity but no difference in positive cultural sensitivity which was found significant at the p=0.05 level. On the other hand there is a significant association between positive cultural sensitivity and willingness to adjust and no significant association between negative cultural sensitivity and willingness to adjust which was found significant at the p=0.05 level.
Research limitations/implications
This research shows how learning in higher education can take into account the experiences by which learners can use their knowledge and skills for future cross-cultural training in international careers.
Practical implications
These results can be useful in guiding vocational interests. The results of the research offer descriptors of an exploratory nature which can also be used as a reference analysis for consequent phases in cross-cultural training.
Originality/value
Research provides several descriptors on international culture such as culture shock, positive and negative intercultural sensitivity, and willingness to adapt, some of which were significant. Diary method to analyze data are used which is distinctive and unique to understand behavior.
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Shalva Tabatadze and Natia Gorgadze
The purpose of this paper is to assess the intercultural sensitivity of students in teacher educational programs at higher education institutes (HEIs) in Georgia.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to assess the intercultural sensitivity of students in teacher educational programs at higher education institutes (HEIs) in Georgia.
Design/methodology/approach
This research explored the intercultural sensitivity among 355 randomly selected students in teacher education programs at higher education institutions in Georgia. A questionnaire based on the Development Model of Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS) and Cushner et al. (2006) model of sources of cultural identity was developed as a research instrument and adjusted to the Georgian context to measure the students’ intercultural sensitivity.
Findings
The results showed that a majority of the students were in the ethnocentric phase of intercultural sensitivity, as defined by Bennett (1993); students in teachers’ educational programs were selectively sensitive to different sources of cultural identity; students were selectively tolerant to different groups in the population with the same source of cultural identity and the level of educational attainment, as well as the location of the higher education institution affected students’ level of intercultural sensitivity.
Practical implications
The findings of this study carry valuable practical importance as they can be used to improve teacher education programs at higher education institutions in Georgia.
Originality/value
The study has scientific value in that the instrument used to assess intercultural sensitivity was developed for the Georgian context, and students’ intercultural sensitivity to 12 different sources of cultural identity was investigated.
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Richard S. Allen, Margaret Takeda and Charles S. White
This study aims to examine the cross‐cultural differences in equity sensitivity between the USA and Japan.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the cross‐cultural differences in equity sensitivity between the USA and Japan.
Design/methodology/approach
A sample of 390 Americans and 202 Japanese were surveyed to determine their equity sensitivities and how each group would likely respond to under‐payment scenarios.
Findings
The findings support the notion that the Japanese are in fact more entitled in their equity orientation than Americans. Furthermore, the Japanese were also significantly more likely to respond with overt actions to reduce their feelings of inequity.
Research limitations/implications
Foremost among these limitations is the fact that the situation presented to the subjects was hypothetical rather than real. Since it would be considered unethical to manipulate subjects in real work settings a first person scenario approach was utilized consistent with other equity theory literature. While the scenario was easily identifiable by the student subjects, it is unknown if the findings from this research would apply to adults working in real world organizations.
Practical implications
The results may have important implications for international human resource strategies and practices. Equity sensitivity may affect perceived value of rewards (compensation), promotion (selection), and motivation (performance management) all of which are critical issues in the effective management of human resources. This study illustrates that cross‐cultural differences exist in regard to equity sensitivity and these differences may affect the efficacy of human resource strategies in global organizations.
Originality/value
This paper offers a significant contribution to the literature on equity sensitivity by testing the theory in a cross‐cultural setting.
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Marianna Kaye and William G.K. Taylor
Explores the occurrence of culture shock in the population of expatriate managers working in the joint venture hotels in Beijing, China. In particular, seeks to gauge the…
Abstract
Explores the occurrence of culture shock in the population of expatriate managers working in the joint venture hotels in Beijing, China. In particular, seeks to gauge the importance of a variety of factors that might influence the level of culture shock. Proposes a model which envisages culture shock as determined by situational factors and by the level of inter‐cultural sensitivity of an expatriate. In turn, the level of inter‐cultural sensitivity is seen as a function of biographical factors and cross cultural training. The findings demonstrate a strong inverse relationship between inter‐cultural sensitivity and culture shock. Training before and/or after arrival in China is received by only a small minority of expatriates but is associated with a higher level of inter‐cultural sensitivity. Among situational factors, a managerial emphasis on motivating employees is associated with lower culture shock. A surprising finding is the tendency for Asian expatriates to experience greater culture shock for a given level of inter‐cultural sensitivity. Outlines implications for personnel policy in selecting expatriate managers.
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Illustrates the utility of a structured exercise using Cushner’s (1986) Inventory of Cross‐Cultural Sensitivity (ICCS) along with supplementary questions in stimulating…
Abstract
Illustrates the utility of a structured exercise using Cushner’s (1986) Inventory of Cross‐Cultural Sensitivity (ICCS) along with supplementary questions in stimulating participants to critically reflect upon their own views, in promoting group discussion on cross‐cultural attitudes and beliefs, and in energizing participants to work towards greater cross‐cultural sensitivity. The overall goal of this procedure was to encourage participants to reflect upon their own views and then work towards a greater valuing of cultural diversity partly as one component of their own strategic career development given the increasing cultural diversity in workplaces round the world. The findings from 211 management undergraduates, that is, “professionals‐in‐training” illustrate the usefulness of this approach and recommendations are presented for future use in training and career development.
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Trang T.M. Nguyen and Tho Dinh Nguyen
– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating roles of cultural sensitivity and information exchange in the impact of market orientation on relationship quality.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating roles of cultural sensitivity and information exchange in the impact of market orientation on relationship quality.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a survey data set collected from a systematic sample of 297 Vietnamese exporters, the authors tested a model that depicts the direct and indirect effects of market orientation on relationship quality.
Findings
The authors found that market orientation has both direct and indirect effects, mediated by cultural sensitivity and information exchange, on relationship quality.
Research limitations/implications
A major limitation of this study is the investigation only one side of the dyad, the exporter. Future research should use data collected from two sides of the dyad, the exporter and the importer.
Practical implications
The results of this study suggest that, exporters, who want to maintain high quality relationships with importers, should adopt a market-oriented strategy to enhance the degree of cultural sensitization to as well as the level of exchange of information with their importers.
Originality/value
This study enhances the understanding of predictors of relationship quality in export markets by confirming the mediating role of cultural sensitivity and information exchange in the impact of market orientation on relationship quality.
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Sumita Rai, Eszter Megyeri and Klára Kazár
Economic turbulence brings a significant impact in the mental health of workforce on both developed and developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of…
Abstract
Purpose
Economic turbulence brings a significant impact in the mental health of workforce on both developed and developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of equity sensitivity on employee mental health. Innovation is considered to be among the critical drivers for the success and future of organizational existence, therefore this paper also investigates how the equity sensitivity impacts innovation orientation and turnover intentions across two geographies India and Hungary.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was carried out among Hungarian and Indian students. Students were selected only on the basis of having two to three years of work experience and also from good business and economics colleges from India and Hungary.
Findings
The results were analyzed using partial least square–structural equation modelling method to test the hypotheses and it showed that equity sensitivity has a positive effect on employee mental health. The findings of the study highlight that even with significant cultural differences equity sensitivity perception does not differ between Hungary and India.
Research limitations/implications
The relationship between equity sensitivity and employee mental health is an important area to understand in a volatile economy. Innovation orientation and turnover intention both are important to understand the productivity of any organization; this paper is an effort to understand the impact of both variables bringing in the positive or negative impact on the growth of an organization. Limitations of this study include the sample size, cross-sectional data. Future studies can be based on a larger sample size from wider cross-sections and cultures.
Practical implications
Managers need to give importance to understand the equity sensitivity of employee and how it impacts their mental health and well-being. Knowing the volatile nature of economy this becomes very relevant and important for managers and organizations.
Social implications
This study is important to understand that how two countries that are significantly different in cultural values still have no difference in equity sensitivity perception. Therefore, equity sensitivity is an important determinant to bring innovation and productivity in organizations across cultures.
Originality/value
These findings contribute to literature of equity sensitivity by exploring the impact of equity sensitivity on employee mental health in the context of two countries. Mental health is a concern not only in India but also in Hungarian context as well.
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Levent Altinay and Maureen Brookes
This paper aims to identify and evaluate the factors which influence relationship development between franchisors and franchisees in international service franchise partnerships.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to identify and evaluate the factors which influence relationship development between franchisors and franchisees in international service franchise partnerships.
Design/methodology/approach
Case studies of two international hotel firms were the focus of the enquiry. Interviews and document analysis were used as the data collection techniques.
Findings
Findings demonstrate that role performance, asset specificity and cultural sensitivity influence relationship development in franchise partnerships. The influence of these factors, however, varies in different forms of franchise partnerships, namely individual and master franchises.
Research limitations/implications
The findings are based on case studies in the international hotel industry and therefore may not be generalizable to other industry sectors.
Practical implications
Service firms should adopt a systematic organization‐wide approach to, and management of, relationship development in franchise partnerships. In particular, in the case of cross‐country partnerships, both franchisors and franchisees need to develop and exploit their inter‐cultural skills and adapt their business practices to the cultures of host and home countries where appropriate.
Originality/value
The paper exploits three main streams of research which could inform the antecedents of business‐to‐business relationships, namely power‐dependence, transaction cost theories and international business. It thus advances services marketing and more specifically international franchising literatures by offering a holistic theoretical perspective to our understanding of business‐to‐business relationship development.
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This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the concept of “global management competencies”.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the concept of “global management competencies”.
Design/methodology/approach
An extensive review of most of the relevant literature on global management competencies was done. By investigating four constructs, i.e. the global mindset, cross‐cultural competence, intercultural sensitivity and cultural intelligence, all related to “global management competencies” the authors made an in‐depth investigation of the contributing organizational behaviour components, the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other personality characteristics (the KSAOs), useful for a construct of global management competencies.
Findings
A configuration of the above components as an integrative model was developed. This model could serve as the basis for the development of measurement instruments.
Originality/value
The construct of global management competencies, albeit with different labels and in different disguise, has received a lot of attention in the last two decades but has not been conceptualised satisfactorily. This article is an attempt to do so.
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