A Multidimensional Evaluation Framework for Expatriate Adaptability in the Hospitality Industry: A Hybrid FDM-FAHP Approach

A Multidimensional Evaluation Framework for Expatriate Adaptability in the Hospitality Industry: A Hybrid FDM-FAHP Approach

In the era of rapid globalization, the demand for hospitality personnel with cross-cultural adaptability has surged. However, existing research often isolates cultural adjustment, lacking an integrated framework that incorporates personality traits and core competencies. To address this gap, this study establishes a multidimensional analytical framework to identify and prioritize the key factors influencing the adaptation of overseas hospitality employees. Utilizing a two-stage methodology—the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) and the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP)—critical evaluation criteria were verified and ranked based on expert consensus. The results indicate that cross-cultural adaptation is the most critical dimension (weight = 0.597), followed by personality traits (0.274) and core competencies (0.130). Specifically, interaction, work, and psychological adaptation emerged as the most significant criteria, demonstrating that interpersonal effectiveness and psychological resilience outweigh technical skills in expatriate success. These findings contribute to the expatriation literature and offer practical insights for recruitment, training, and talent management in the global hospitality industry.