The Role of Local Language Mastery in Foreign Talent Management at Institutions of Higher Learning

Abstract

Purpose: This article explores the role and impact of Czech language mastery in the integration and retention of foreign academics in HEIs in the Czech Republic (CR). Global Talent Management aspires to attract the best talents to the workplace. The well-being of foreign talents in local workplaces is often researched without expounding the impact of local language mastery. Universities in CR, like other universities in the European Union (EU) have strategic needs for foreign talents in their Higher Education Institutions (HEI), however, various barriers persist in attracting and retaining foreign academics in CR. Design/Method/Approach: Based upon the theories of Global Talent Management, internationalization, and social ecology, this study conducted quantitative research and collected primary data from 211 foreign academics living and working in HEIs in CR. The study evaluated the dimensions of the well-being of foreign academics with their Czech language mastery. Findings: The result shows that although a multicultural environment exists in HEIs in CR, which allows for communication in English, the need to understand the local language i.e. Czech language, for work orientation, administrative procedures and integration of a foreign employee into the local community in the medium and long-term are still pertinent. Theoretical Implications: This study contributes to the extension of Global Talent Management theory by extending the dimension of local language mastery as an important driver for employee integration and retention into a local workplace and community for sustainable employment. Practical Implications: The study found that foreign academics can improve Czech language proficiency and feel better integrated with local communities after five years in CR. HEIs could play a proactive role in integrating and retaining foreign talents by assisting with local language mastery. Originality/Value: This study highlights the importance of local language mastery in Global Talent Management. Specifically for Institutions of Higher Learning, the retention of foreign talents is directly affected by the expatriates’ ability to master the local language. Research Limitations/Future Research: The research lacked sufficient information on the total number of foreign academics currently residing in CR. However, 211 foreign academics participated in this study. Future studies could expand the study by surveying foreign talents in other EU countries as well as including other dimensions besides local language mastery. Paper Type: Empirical JEL Сlassіfіcatіon: F22, I23, J24, J49

Keywords

• global talent management
• internationalization
• foreign employees
• European union
• well-being