Cultural Intelligence as a Critical Factor of Expatriate Performance in Russia

The purpose of this study was to find out whether work outcome of expatriates in Russia can be determined by the concept of Cultural Intelligence (CQ). Methodology of the study was qualitative, and it is justified: (1) by the lack of neither statistical or qualitative analysis in Russia; and (2) use the flexibility of semi-structured interviews to reveal any new nuances for successful performance in Russia. The result of the study shows that CQ components are indeed critical factors of expatriate performance in Russia. Moreover, there were discovered that intrinsic motivation of expatriate plays a pivotal role in successfulness, not underestimating the other components of CQ. Study concludes with the recommendation for MNCs to use CQ construct in selecting and trainings before sending an expatriate to Russia. These steps will contribute to overcome expatriate failure, i.e premature returns and unproductive performance of expatriates overseas.