How HR Initiatives Influence the Sense of Belonging Among Expatriates in the Netherlands: The Role of Cultural Background
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2025-06-26
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en
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In this study, it is examined whether organizational resources in the form of human resource (HR) initiatives are related to the sense of belonging among self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) in the Netherlands. Following this, it is assessed whether this relationship is moderated by cultural background, based on Hofstede’s dimensions of power distance, individualism versus collectivism and uncertainty avoidance. Drawing on Perceived Organizational Support (POS) theory and the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model, HR initiatives are conceptualized as essential organizational resources that support employee integration. Results from a sample of 120 SIEs support a strong positive relationship between HR initiatives and the sense of belonging. A significant moderating effect was found for power distance, suggesting that the effectiveness of HR initiatives differs based on this cultural dimension. However, no moderating effects were found for individualism versus collectivism and uncertainty avoidance. An additional analysis revealed that the HR initiative “being treated with respect and attention” had the strongest impact on expatriates’ sense of belonging. These findings show that HR initiatives directly enhance the sense of belonging among SIEs and that the impact may depend on specific cultural values. The study contributes to international HR literature by highlighting how inclusive HR strategies can foster expatriate integration, with particular sensitivity to power distance differences
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen