Global Mindset Development: Qualitative Research of Japanese Business Leaders Based on the Global Mindset Inventory
Date
2023-12
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Abstract
Japanese multinational enterprises (MNEs) have been expanding globally since the 1990s, seeking new markets around the world that may compensate for shrinking domestic markets. They have always been in need of global leaders who drive global expansion but have failed to develop them successfully. The purpose of this study was to find out which competencies of the global mindset Japanese business leaders find challenging to develop and explore how such competencies can be acquired or developed. The conceptual frameworks used for this study were the global mindset inventory (GMI), which outlays nine major global leadership competencies, and the global leadership development ecosystem (GLDE), which connects the constructs of the GMI and learning methodologies to develop them. These models were tested on a sample of 13 Japanese participants with rich international experience. The results of the qualitative analysis revealed that (a) seven out of nine GMI factors were supported, but the remaining two received mixed views; (b) humility was suggested as a critical factor of global leadership, which is not included in the GMI; (c) local language and business customs were the most challenging expertise to develop; and (d) the top method the Japanese leaders used to develop the global leadership was work experience. Implications of this study include (a) it is important to distinguish competencies that are essential in the Western leadership style and those in the Japanese leadership style; (b) humility is regarded as critical for global leadership not only in the Japanese but also in the Western realm; and (c) leadership competencies required in the local workplace are the combination of leadership competencies viable universally and those unique to the local environment. Recommendations are made on practical approaches to global leadership development, and areas of further research are suggested.
Description
A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Business Administration
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Keywords
Business Administration, Business Education