Suggestions for Cultural Diversity Management in Companies: Derived from International Students' Expectations in Germany and the USA

The investigation shows expectations of international students in Germany (GER) and the United States of America (US) with a focus on cultural diversity management (CDM). Furthermore, it gives suggestions to companies in order to become more attractive as international employers in the long run. In a first step, the research objectives are determined, followed by a definition of the main terms of diversity management (DM) and CDM and hypotheses are developed. Then, an online survey among international students in GER and also international students in the US was conducted. The results, deriving from 318 participants, are described and analyzed in the study. Finally, recommendations for companies on CDM are presented. The main findings describe that DM is less prominent among international students in GER than among internationals in the US (with 54 compared to 40 percent). Besides, the dimensions of nationality and gender seem to be very important for international students. Language courses, further support and culturally mixed teams are considered as most important expectations towards CDM in both countries. As further expectations comments to the topics equality, support, integration and acceptance, understanding and awareness as well as good working atmosphere were given. As critical aspects regarding CDM in GER mainly language barriers are described. The study gives further proof that GER as well as the US are considered as attractive countries to work and study worldwide. However, more than half of the participating students perceived difficulties regarding the search for a job in both countries. This work shall contribute further information to the implementation of cultural diversity for companies as well as providing new insights for researchers and universities into the topic of CDM. Thus it might be interesting for international students, HR managers, diversity officers, managers and other employees.

Melanie Hölz was born in Riedlingen in 1989. In 2015, the author completed successfully her studies in International Business Administration with the academic degree of Bachelor of Science at Nürtingen University. During her studies, the author gathered diverse practical and intercultural experience in an international study environment. When coming back to Germany after a one-year study term in Mexico, the author had a huge interest in intercultural topics and strived to find out why people decide to study and work in Germany. This led to the desire to find out how companies deal with people of diverse backgrounds and what they can still improve in their recruitment and integration process of international employees.