EXPERIÊNCIA INTERNACIONAL AUTO INICIADA: EXECUTIVOS FRANCESES NO BRASIL.

Abstract

Traditionally, international work experience was a result of expatriation by the company. However, many executives are looking for jobs outside their countries, self-motivated. In this scenario, there are individuals with self-initiated foreign work experience (SFE), which are the object of the present study. This article sought to explore why French executives are seeking SFEs at Brazil. This article explores a qualitative methodology through semi-structured interviews until saturation was reached, with 7 interviews with Frenchs in SFE in Brazil. Results allowed to cluster the EIAs interviewed in the motivations` categories in the literature. It was also possible to understand the influence of family in decision-making, the relevance of cultural proximity and the attractiveness of the Brazilian economy. Interviewed were attracted to Brazil mainly due to economic opportunities and sympathy towards Brazilian Culture. This paper contributes to the literature and practice of managing people in multicultural environments by identifying factors that attract qualified executives for the Brazilian labor market and by studying a subject almost not explored in national literature.