Power distance and CEO legitimacy: Exploring international employees' perceptions in a Dutch software company
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2024-07-04
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en
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Abstract
In light of the ongoing globalization of the business world, the Netherlands has become a
destination of choice for many international employees seeking to work abroad. Many
international employees now work within Dutch companies. However, cultural dierences, such
as the individually values held about power distance in the workplace, can sometimes give rise
to sources of tension. The objective of this study was to examine how international employees
perceive the legitimacy of a Dutch CEO, taking into account the contrasting cultural values
regarding power distance. A qualitative study was conducted for the purposes of this research. A
total of nine international employees working in a Dutch software company were interviewed for
this study. The most significant aspects influencing the perception of the CEO’s legitimacy
among international employees were collaborative decision-making, openness, the informal
image of the CEO, socio-emotional support, and open door policy. These aspects were
considered in light of the cultural dierences between international employees and the Dutch
CEO with regard to power distance. The findings indicated that, contrary to expectations,
international employees granted the Dutch CEO a considerable degree of legitimacy, particularly
in relational areas such as trustworthiness and interpersonal respect.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen