Standardization and customization of the international recruitment and selection process : A study from the cultural and institutional perspective

Abstract: Aim ~ The aim of the study is to explore the phenomenon of external international recruitment and examine how the international recruitment and selection process is designed in practice. Regarding this aim, the study’s focus is on standardization and customization of the international recruitment process in terms of cultural and institutional aspects. Method ~ The study is based on a qualitative research method and a thematic template analysis of 11 semi-structured interviews. The sampling technique is a non-probabilistic and purposive method, resulting in respondents who are recruiters or managers which in their work participate in full-cycle or parts of the external international recruitment process. The,interviews were conducted during the time period of April - May 2022, through digital meetings or by phone. Results ~ The methods used in external international recruitment were found to be online interviewing, tests, and sourcing. Findings disclose that the international recruitment processis affected by culture in terms of three features: national, global, and generational. Additionally, institutional aspects were found to affect the recruitment sources and thus influence the process by regional divisions. As well, corporate institutions such as company size and degree of centrality were found to influence the process design. Conclusion ~ The external international recruitment process is characterized by high standardization in the preliminary phases, while a higher degree of customization according to institutional differences and cultural individuality of candidates is undertaken towards these lection phase. Thus, results are explained by institutional theory and the concepts of legitimacy and isomorphism, as the international recruitment and selection process is adapted to constraints in turn to create legitimate practices. As well, organizations are seemingly taking on the presented international recruitment process and becoming similar in their actions.