Adjustment Period

Definition

The adjustment period refers to the time frame during which expatriates adapt to their new cultural and work environments after relocating to a different country. This phase is critical as it involves acclimatization to new social norms, workplace expectations, and lifestyle changes that can significantly impact an expatriate's effectiveness and well-being.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The adjustment period can vary in length depending on individual factors such as personality, prior international experience, and cultural differences.
2. Common stages of the adjustment period include initial excitement, cultural shock, gradual adaptation, and eventual integration into the new environment.
3. Support from the employer, such as orientation programs and mentoring, can significantly ease the adjustment period for expatriates.
4. Emotional resilience plays a key role in how quickly an expatriate navigates through their adjustment period.
5. An ineffective adjustment period can lead to decreased job performance and higher turnover rates among expatriates.

Review Questions

• How do individual factors influence the duration and experience of an expatriate's adjustment period?
  • Individual factors such as personality traits, previous international experiences, and adaptability significantly influence the duration and experience of an expatriate's adjustment period. For example, an open-minded individual may adjust more quickly to new cultures compared to someone who is less adaptable. Additionally, prior exposure to different cultures can provide valuable skills for navigating the challenges encountered during this phase.
• Discuss the importance of organizational support during an expatriate's adjustment period and its potential impact on their performance.
  • Organizational support is crucial during an expatriate's adjustment period as it provides resources and guidance necessary for successful adaptation. Support mechanisms like orientation programs, cultural training, and mentorship can help expatriates understand local customs and workplace dynamics. When organizations invest in these resources, it positively impacts expatriate performance by reducing stress levels and fostering a sense of belonging in the new environment.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of a successful versus unsuccessful adjustment period on an expatriate's career trajectory within their organization.
  • A successful adjustment period can lead to enhanced career opportunities for an expatriate within their organization due to increased job satisfaction and effectiveness in cross-cultural interactions. Conversely, an unsuccessful adjustment may result in prolonged cultural shock and dissatisfaction, possibly leading to early repatriation. This early return can negatively affect future career prospects, as employers might perceive it as a failure to adapt or thrive in diverse environments, impacting long-term career advancement.

Related terms

Cultural Shock: The feelings of disorientation and discomfort that individuals experience when they encounter a different culture.

Expatriate: A person who lives outside their native country, often for work purposes, and faces unique challenges related to adaptation.

Repatriation: The process of returning to one's home country after an extended period abroad, which can also involve an adjustment period.