Indian Nurses in the United Kingdom: A Two-Phase Study of the Expatriate-Host Country National Relationship

It is well established that expatriates need support from host country nationals (HCNs) to successfully adjust in their new location, and subsequently perform well in their jobs. Drawing on a sample of 149 Indian nurses in the United Kingdom, this two-phase study illustrates how expatriate-HCN interactions unfold over time (two years). To do this, we draw upon social identity theory and show that effective expatriate-HCN relationship building (i.e., perceived categorization and perceived values similarity) lead to HCN support and, subsequently, expatriate adjustment. Results confirmed that perceptions of categorization and value similarity significantly impacted HCN willingness to offer support. We also find that expatriate age, education level, and time spent in the host country significantly impact adjustment. We discuss theoretical and practical implications and offer suggestions for future research.