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Fit, misfit, and beyond fit: Relational metaphors and semantic fit in international joint ventures

Author

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  • Leigh Anne Liu

    (Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA)

  • Wendi L Adair

    (Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada)

  • Daniel C Bello

    (Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University, Atlanta, USA)

Abstract

We propose that metaphorical descriptions of newly formed international joint ventures (IJVs) contain important, diagnostic information regarding the way these cross-border alliances are managed and perform. In three studies, we examine how relational metaphors reflect semantic fit, or the IJV partners’ cognitive match of managerial schemas and their capability to recontextualize communications regarding alliance operations. We find IJV partners that share relational metaphors achieve superior outcomes, reflecting aligned managerial approaches to controlling shared resources and joint activities. Further, formal ownership as equity share moderates the impact managerial schemas implied by metaphors have on subjective, time-lagged performance of IJVs. Our analysis of metaphorical language not only reveals the way newly formed IJVs are managed, but also highlights performance variations associated with complex patterns of IJV controls.

Suggested Citation

  • Leigh Anne Liu & Wendi L Adair & Daniel C Bello, 2015. "Fit, misfit, and beyond fit: Relational metaphors and semantic fit in international joint ventures," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 46(7), pages 830-849, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jintbs:v:46:y:2015:i:7:p:830-849
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    Cited by:

    1. Hongxin Zhao & Jieqiong Ma & Jie Yang, 2017. "30 Years of Research on Entry Mode and Performance Relationship: A Meta-Analytical Review," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 57(5), pages 653-682, October.
    2. Huang, Ming-Chang & Chiu, Ya-Ping, 2020. "A knowledge tension perspective on management control and performance in international joint ventures," Journal of International Management, Elsevier, vol. 26(4).
    3. Obadia, Claude & Bello, Daniel C., 2019. "How to select an export mode without bias," Business Horizons, Elsevier, vol. 62(2), pages 171-183.
    4. Alfredo Jimenez & Jonas Holmqvist & Diego Jimenez, 2019. "Cross-Border Communication and Private Participation Projects: The Role of Genealogical Language Distance," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 59(6), pages 1009-1033, December.
    5. Marius G. Gehrisch & Stefan Süß, 2023. "Organizational behavior in international strategic alliances and the relation to performance – a literature review and avenues for future research," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 73(3), pages 1045-1107, September.
    6. Magnani, Giovanna & Gioia, Denny, 2023. "Using the Gioia Methodology in international business and entrepreneurship research," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 32(2).
    7. Golesorkhi, Sougand & Mersland, Roy & Piekkari, Rebecca & Pishchulov, Grigory & Randøy, Trond, 2019. "The effect of language use on the financial performance of microfinance banks: Evidence from cross-border activities in 74 countries," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 54(3), pages 213-229.
    8. Michael Nippa & Jeffrey J Reuer, 2019. "On the future of international joint venture research," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 50(4), pages 555-597, June.
    9. Owens, Martin & Ramsey, Elaine & Loane, Sharon, 2018. "Resolving post-formation challenges in shared IJVs: The impact of shared IJV structure on inter-partner relationships," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 27(3), pages 584-593.
    10. Lojacono, Gabriella & Misani, Nicola & Tallman, Stephen, 2017. "Offshoring, local market entry, and the strategic context of cross-border alliances: The impact on the governance mode," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 26(3), pages 435-447.

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