Impact of Cultural Intelligence on Expatriate Performance in Multinational Corporations in Ghana

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of cultural intelligence on expatriate performance in multinational corporations in Ghana. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: A study on the impact of cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate performance in multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in Ghana revealed significant correlations between CQ and various performance dimensions. Expatriates with higher levels of CQ demonstrated greater adaptation to the local culture, improved communication effectiveness, and higher job performance. These findings underscore the importance of cultural intelligence as a critical competency for expatriates navigating diverse cultural contexts, particularly in emerging markets like Ghana. Additionally, the study highlighted the need for MNCs to prioritize CQ development programs to enhance the success of expatriate assignments and improve overall organizational performance in culturally diverse environments. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social learning theory, self-efficacy theory and cultural distance theory may be use to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of cultural intelligence on expatriate performance in multinational corporations in Ghana. Develop and implement targeted cultural intelligence training programs for expatriates to enhance their effectiveness in diverse cultural environments. Advocate for the integration of cultural intelligence assessments into the selection and recruitment processes for expatriate assignments within MNCs.