The Traits and Skills of Successful Immigrant Workers in American Organizations

Abstract

There is no clear-cut, defined step-by-step process for immigrant workers to follow that guarantees success within American organizations. The existing literature identifies immigrant demographics common to leadership roles but does not point to specific traits or skills immigrants need for promotion to leadership positions or how to navigate the hiring process within U.S. organizations. The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative research was to identify factors contributing to immigrant workers’ success within American organizations. An interview approach was used because the immigrants who have lived these experiences are the most accurate storytellers. The study comprised 15 volunteer participants. Those participants formed two groups: successful Immigrant Workers (n = 10) and Hiring Managers (n = 5). Through an interview process, data was collected and coded. Data analysis involved the use of process coding (Saldana, 2014) to identify common themes. Both Immigrant workers and Hiring Managers identified seven themes; five of which were common to both groups interviewed: (a) Personal Traits and Characteristics, (b) Interpersonal Skills, (c) Achievement Orientation, (d) Desire for Learning and Development, and (e) Multiculturalism and Diversity. Immigrant workers also identified English Proficiency and Mentoring and Coaching as important influences on their success. Hiring Managers noted they considered a variety of Basic Work Requirements, and Knowledge of the U.S. when hiring or promoting immigrants. Implications and recommendations for immigrant workers are discussed