A way out of the crises for expatriates: the mediating role of psychological capital

Abstract

This study reports on the experience of 10 expatriates during the severe economic downturn in Portugal. Following a phenomenological research method based on in-depth interviews, we explore the challenges and opportunities faced by the group. The report concludes that expatriates with psychological capital (high on hope, optimism, resilience and self-efficacy) are more likely to cope better with the economic climate, overcoming feelings of pressure and helplessness to achieve professional and personal opportunities and gains. The discussion then focus on how should MNEs better prepare expatriates using PsyCap as a selection criteria and part of the pre-departure training.