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The role of emotions in intercultural business communication: Language standardization in the context of international knowledge transfer

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  • Wang, Qiu
  • Clegg, Jeremy
  • Gajewska-De Mattos, Hanna
  • Buckley, Peter

Abstract

We examine language standardization in a multinational enterprise in the context of international knowledge transfer treated as an act of communication. Based on psychological theories of emotions and a qualitative study of a Chinese owned company with English as a working language, we find that both native and non-native English-speakers experience anxiety in intercultural communication. This triggers emotions that are culturally predisposed affecting communication behavior. We provide a framework within which intercultural business communication takes place and demonstrate the intermediating role that emotions play when language is standardized.

Suggested Citation

  • Wang, Qiu & Clegg, Jeremy & Gajewska-De Mattos, Hanna & Buckley, Peter, 2020. "The role of emotions in intercultural business communication: Language standardization in the context of international knowledge transfer," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 55(6).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:worbus:v:55:y:2020:i:6:s1090951617308453
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jwb.2018.11.003
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