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The vital liaison role of host country nationals in MNC knowledge management
Author(s) -
Vance Charles M.,
Vaiman Vlad,
Andersen Torben
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
human resource management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.888
H-Index - 94
eISSN - 1099-050X
pISSN - 0090-4848
DOI - 10.1002/hrm.20307
Subject(s) - multinational corporation , conceptualization , facilitator , business , knowledge management , human resource management , corporation , human resources , work (physics) , public relations , host (biology) , resource (disambiguation) , management , political science , computer science , economics , mechanical engineering , ecology , finance , artificial intelligence , law , biology , engineering , computer network
This paper broadens the conceptualization of multinational corporation (MNC) knowledge management to include the importance of active involvement in a liaison role by host country nationals (HCNs), particularly those working directly with expatriates. Based on our field research and work experience in international settings as well as current research literature, we identify and consider several beneficial components of this liaison role in local knowledge management, including cultural interpreter, communication facilitator, information resource broker, talent developer, and change partner. We also call for future research to help build upon our present model and to provide practical guidance in human resource (HR) policy and practice to help organizations take advantage of this potentially valuable liaison role. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.