Because of the strategic importance of organizational learning in a global economy, the knowledge that repatriates acquire during international assignments is a valuable resource. Few multinational enterprises, however, actively harvest this knowledge, and little quantitative empirical research on this topic exists to date. We propose an original model and propositions that delineate the facilitative and inhibiting factors affecting repatriate knowledge transfer to work units. We conclude with suggestions for future research and practical implications. Journal of International Business Studies (2009) 40, 181–199; doi:10.1057/palgrave.jibs.8400402

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Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to add a process perspective to the literature on repatriate knowledge transfer (RKT) and to understand how the knowledge transfer process unfolds in the repatriation context. Thus, this qualitative study uses existing knowledge transfer process models to assess their applicability to the context of repatriation and explain the micro-processes during RKT. Design/methodology/approach – To provide a rich understanding of these processes from the repatriate perspective, critical incidents reported by 29 German and US American repatriates were content-analyzed. Findings – The findings are summarized in a proposed RKT process model, which describes the roles and knowledge transfer-related activities of repatriates, recipients and supervisors as well as their interaction during four transfer phases: assessment, initiation, execution and evaluation. Research limitations/implications – The experiences of repatriates from different geographic areas as well as the perspectives of knowledge recipients and supervisors were not studied but should be included in future research. In addition, future research could test the applicability of the identified micro-processes to different knowledge transfer contexts. Practical implications – Managers can use the findings to facilitate the RKT process more effectively because the type of organizational support offered can be aligned with the changing needs of repatriates, recipients and supervisors during the four identified phases. Originality/value – This is the first study that takes a process perspective to understand RKT. The integration of the current findings with the existing literature can enable a more nuanced view on RKT.

The present study investigated several potential antecedents and consequences of emotional exhaustion in a sample (N = 859) of computer-monitored telephone reservation agents. The agents performed their tasks in an environment characterized by tight managerial control and relatively little decision-making latitude. The results of regression analyses indicated that job satisfaction, job-related tension, age, and tenure on the job were each uniquely associated with reports of exhaustion. Exhaustion was, in turn, significantly related to intentions to leave, absenteeism, and actual job change. Supplemental causal modeling of the data using LISREL VI suggested that the implied causal linkages between emotional exhaustion and these outcomes provided a reasonable, albeit imprecise representation of the data.

This article investigates the correlation of personality variables and inter-group conflict resolution modes. In the first of two -research approaches, EPPS scores of 64 college students on aggression, dominance, affiliation, and achievement were correlated with preferences for confronting, forcing, and smoothing. A field study correlated EPPS variables of 19 boundary personnel with ratings on resolution modes by 57 interorganizational correspondents. As hypothesized, achievement was positively correlated with confronting under both research approaches. Only students' aggression scores correlated weakly and positively with preference for forcing. Affiliation and smoothing were also weakly and positively correlated with the students but not in the field.

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