Cross-cultural training for Dutch expatriates going to India

Abstract

The aim of this study is to gain insight into the challenges encountered by Dutch expatriates during their stay in India and into how Cross-Cultural Training (CCT) can be improved to help them handle these challenges adequately. For this explorative, in-depth study, CCT was split into five areas: adjustment to work; adjustment to interacting with host country nationals; adjustment to the general non-work environment; adjustment to Indian culture; and adjustment to the Indian context. Eighteen Dutch expatriates were interviewed. Data analysis included a discursive interpretation of the relevant quotes. A number of elements that can be improved in received CCT were identified in the five areas mentioned above.