Factors Affecting Cross-Cultural Adjustment and Job Performance of Chinese Expatriates in ASEAN Countries

Abstract

This study employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate the determinants of success for Chinese corporate expatriates in ASEAN countries. The research design incorporated qualitative focus group and individual interviews with 10 expatriates to refine the survey instrument, followed by a comprehensive quantitative survey of 400 assignees. The findings reveal three key patterns: (1) demographic analyses show younger expatriates (20-29 years) demonstrate superior adaptation, while doctoral-level education exhibits a paradoxical negative relationship with intercultural personality traits; (2) Structural Equation Modeling identifies Cultural Intelligence (CQ) as the strongest predictor of CrossCultural Adjustment (β = .303), while Pre-Departure Training (PDT) shows the most substantial direct effect on Job Performance (β = .275); (3) Cross-Cultural Adjustment serves as a critical mediator, translating approximately 12-31% of antecedent effects into enhanced performance. The study provides an empirically-validated framework for optimizing expatriate management practices in cross-cultural contexts, with particular relevance for the China-ASEAN economic corridor.