International management of human resources: intercultural adaptability in the expatriation of brazilians

This paper problematizes the experiences of Brazilian expatriates to show the challenges and opportunities that they face in other cultures. Grounded on the literature, we emphasize the need to humanize the internationalization process because expatriation is a multidimensional phenomenon that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Its empirical contribution is to analize data collected through interviews with sixteen expatriates. The findings suggest that the process of expatriation is an issue that requires more attention from the area of International Management of Human Resources. We identify the challenges as the fragility of the so-called antecipated adaptability, of repatriation strategies, of the repatriation implications to the job plan, as well as, the need of specific programs of intercultural training. Otherwise, expatriation processes register positive aspects as the professional and personal opportunities in the assignments. Taking into consideration these findings, the area of International Management of Human Resources may incorporate the intense experiences of expatriates to reformulate policies and practices and, consequently, benefit from the global mindset