How composition and compilation of international experience in groups influences knowledge sharing: a theoretical model

Abstract

PurposeThis study presents a conceptual model of knowledge sharing in global organizations, examining the facilitating role of international experience through cognitive, relational and structural social capital perspectives.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual paper that applies multilevel thinking to the issue of knowledge sharing in global environments.FindingsThe presented conceptual model contributes to our understanding of the microfoundational role of international experience in facilitating knowledge sharing in global organizations by integrating individual, dyadic and group perspectives.Practical implicationsManagerial implications are discussed for how to strengthen individuals' propensities for knowledge sharing from international experience through strategic hiring, employee development, succession planning and expatriate mobility.Originality/valueThe presented framework explicitly considers the implications of individual heterogeneity in international experience for differences in organizational knowledge sharing capabilities, thereby contributing to the search for microfoundations of competitive advantage in global organizations.