Global Journal of Management and Business Research, A: Administration and Management, Volume 23 Issue 10

Exploring Opportunities and Successes: Navigating Self-Initiated Expatriates in the USA Osman Yussuf Author: Department of Management, College of Business, Grambling State University, Louisiana, USA. e-mail: yussufo@gram.edu Abstract- The primary objective of this study is to enhance the comprehension of the obstacles and achievements faced by self-initiated expatriates residing in the United States. By employing in-depth interviews, this study examines the intricate experiences of individuals who have engaged in self- initiated expatriation, thereby providing insights into the challenges and opportunities encountered by organizations operating in this particular context. Through the utilization of a qualitative methodology, the study captures the multifaceted narratives and distinct viewpoints of the participants, thereby unraveling the intricate intricacies of their individual journeys. This provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between individuals and organizations in the context of self- initiated expatriation. This was achieved through the use of thematic analysis. The results of the study emphasize that self- initiated expatriates possess distinctive abilities and viewpoints, presenting a valuable asset for organizations seeking to improve innovation and adaptability. The research highlights examples in which organizations effectively leverage the capabilities of Social Impact Enterprises, attaining a synergistic equilibrium between centralized global oversight and individual independence. This research makes a valuable contribution to the fields of expatriation by examining the challenges faced by self-initiated expatriates in the United States. Additionally, it highlights the considerable opportunities and successes that these organizations encounter. The implication of the results lies with ramifications for the management of human resources and the development of organizations, providing guidance for organizations to strategically utilize the potential of Social Impact Enterprises and cultivate a mutually advantageous partnership. Keywords: self-initiated expatriates, challenges, opportunities, achievement. I. I ntroduction elf-initiated expatriates (SIEs) refer to individuals who autonomously opt to reside and engage in employment activities in a foreign country, distinct from their place of origin. This decision is typically motivated by personal or professional factors (Marie- France et al., 2020; Leonidas and Dritsas, 2022). They exhibit distinctions from conventional expatriates who are dispatched overseas by their employment. Inter- national students and exchange participants (SIEs) choose to move to the United States for various personal reasons, including the desire to enhance their professional prospects, pursue further education, immerse themselves in a different cultural environment, or enhance their overall standard of living. In contrast to expats sponsored by companies, self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) bear the responsibility of independently organizing their visas, securing job, acquiring housing, and adapting to the new surroundings without significant assistance from an employer. Self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) exhibit notable proficiency in adaptability, showcasing their capacity to effectively acclimate to unfamiliar cultures, work settings, and societal conventions. This is particularly noteworthy considering the limited access they typically have to the structured assistance commonly available to conventional expatriates (Heidi et al., 2022). A significant number of SIEs relocate to the United States with the idea of pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors, seeking to establish enterprises or advance their professional trajectories autonomously, capitalizing on the various options afforded by the nation. Socially inclined entrepreneurs (SIEs) demonstrate a proclivity for actively engaging with the local culture, displaying a desire to assimilate into the society, foster interpersonal relationships, and cultivate networks in order to foster a sense of affiliation (Vlad et al., 2015). Special Immigrant Entrepreneurs (SIEs) originate from a wide range of professional backgrounds, thereby introducing a multitude of skills, information, and viewpoints that enrich the cultural and professional diversity within the American workforce (Subramaniam et al., 2022). A significant number of skilled immigrant entrepreneurs (SIEs) that choose to relocate to the United States have a high level of education, accompanied by a range of specialized skills and knowledge that are highly valued within the domestic labor market. While it is true that some individuals with SIE (Special Immigrant Entrepreneur) status may originally want to stay in the United States for a limited period, a significant number of them ultimately choose to prolong their stay or establish permanent residency. This decision is often influenced by the attractive prospects and quality of life available in the United States (Maike et al., 2020). The research emphasizes that self-initiated expats has distinctive and valued skills and perspectives that they contribute to businesses. This discovery implies that acknowledging and using these attributes can help to the enhancement of creativity and flexibility within the organizational framework. This study aims to identify specific cases in which corporations effectively S Global Journal of Management and Business Research ( A ) XXIII Issue X Version I Year 2023 19 © 2023 Global Journals