Synthesizing key insights in international talent management: expatalent as a new promising path of research

This chapter provides some concluding remarks for the book and also an introduction of “international talent mobility” to the concept of “expatalent” by merging trends in migration and business studies to focus on highly skilled migrants, particularly Chinese talent movers. Traditionally, migration studies have concentrated on labor migration and refugees, often overlooking middle-class and highly educated migrants. This book argues against the assumption that migration research must be tied to solidarity and assistance, demonstrating that talent movers or expatriates do not need such support. By exploring the profiles of expatalent and their strategic migration to enhance capabilities before returning to their native countries, the book highlights the intersection of talent management and expatriation. The volume presents a multiscale approach to understanding expatalent, emphasizing the roles of global companies, national policies, and various actors in fostering talent mobility. It challenges the brain-drain/brain-gain dichotomy and advocates for a triple-win strategy benefiting countries, companies, and individuals. The book underscores the importance of sustainable practices and regulatory frameworks in shaping international talent management and calls for further research to bridge business and migration studies.