Adult third culture kids: expatriate potential is one piece of the puzzle

摘要

Purpose - Adult third culture kids (ATCK) have been identified as a potential source for global business because of their experience in expatriation and increased intercultural competence. The purpose of this paper is to build on existing research focused on this population and to highlight crucial areas for further study to gain more comprehensive insight to their potential in working teams. Design/methodology/approach - This viewpoint design reviews previous literature and research on ATCK and their potential for business expatriation and raises questions for areas of necessary further research to better understand their impact upon assignment. Findings - There is strong support for ATCK suitability and inclination for expatriate assignment from previous literature. There is much unknown about their performance upon expatriation and a need for further research specific to ATCK performance in teams and organizations. Originality/value - This study poses questions about translating ATCK experience into team performance; emphasizes the challenges in isolating one trait in personal development and the risks of conflating ATCK experience in professional capabilities.