The Impact of Culture Context on the Transfer of Best Leadership Practices by International Hotel Firms

Abstract

The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to investigate the culture context impact on the transfer of best leadership practices by international hotel firms operating in Zimbabwe. The failure of managers on foreign assignments was identified as a serious problem which needed to be investigated in order to understand the cultural impact on leadership practices. Data for analysis were collected using Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X), Value Survey Model (VSM) survey instruments and open-ended questions interview. A total of 97 middle managers completed the MLQ and VSM survey instruments and 11 senior managers participated in open-ended interviews. Data from the study were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and a content analysis of the interview responses. The study findings indicated that culture impacts the transfer of best leadership practices and that cultural understanding is paramount when managing across cultures. The study findings also revealed that, leadership styles transcend cultures but should be applied in the context of local culture or environment.