Closing the gap: Expectations versus reality among repatriates

After working abroad for extended periods, managers returning to their parent companies and communities are more likely to resign and seek outside employment than executives with comparable experience. Based on a sample of 174 repatriates and 92 spouses with five U.S. multinationals, our research indicates that gaps often exist between the expatriates' work and nonwork expectations and the realities of life back home. The need to develop strategies to close these gaps and retain these employees will become even more important as increasing numbers of corporations send managers overseas. Enhancing repatriates' commitment to their parent companies and local work units is a critical first step. This article examines ways for companies to begin this process.