IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication Jun 2019

Language, Identity, and Transnational Communication: Chinese Business Expatriates in Africa

Bin Ai Shanghai University of Finance and Economics ; Can Cui Shanghai University of Finance and Economics ; Lifei Wang University of International Business and Economics

Abstract

Introduction: Under the influence of economic globalization, many enterprises are seeking more markets in developing countries, and more Chinese business expatriates are being sent to work in host countries. This study explores Chinese business expatriates' communication experience and identity work in three African countries, and their perceptions of the functions of English or the local language in transnational business communication. About the case: This article explores the following research questions: 1. How do Chinese business expatriates experience their cultural and national identity when using a foreign working language in a host country? 2. How do Chinese business expatriates evaluate the functions of a foreign language in their transnational communication? 3. What suggestions can be provided for future business expatriates and their transnational/globalizing companies? Situating the case: The process of identity construction and business expatriates' identity work in a host space are interpreted in the context of Hofstede and Hofstede's acculturation curve. Other key concepts related to transnational business communication, including third space as defined by Bhabha, are also addressed. Methods/approach: Using a case study approach, the researchers examine four participants' transnational business communication experiences and interpret their identity work through the data collected in the form of interviews. Results/discussion: The researchers find that the business expatriates realized the importance of English or local language communication competence in a transnational business space, although they still kept their Chinese cultural and national identity. Conclusions: This study contributes to transnational business communication by helping professionals to understand the language and cultural challenges faced by Chinese business expatriates, and offers suggestions for globalizing companies that send employees to host countries.

Journal
IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication
Published
2019-06-01
DOI
10.1109/tpc.2019.2893463
CompPile
Open Access
Closed
Topics
professional writing qualitative research multilingual writers
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Citation Context

Cited by in this index (1)

  1. Ghimire (2024)
    Understanding Transnational Technical Communication in Technical and Profession…
    Technical Communication Quarterly

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