Exploring perceptions of "foreignness" in virtual teams: The impact on member satisfaction and turnover intention

Gary Garrison
Michael Harvey, Bond University
Miriam Moeller, Bond University

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Interim status: Citation only.

Garrison, G., Harvey, M., & Moeller, M. (2009). Exploring perceptions of "foreignness" in virtual teams: The impact on member satisfaction and turnover intention. Paper presented at the 2009 Meeting of the Southern Management Association (SMA). Asheville, NC, United States.

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2009 HERDC submission. FoR code: 1503

© Copyright Southern Management Association (SMA).

Abstract

This paper uses status inconsistency theory to identify factors related to satisfaction with the composition of virtual teams to predict turnover intentions. The paradox that increasing diversity maximizes the creation and use of organizational knowledge while increasing dissatisfaction and turnover is a critical issue in the formation/management of virtual teams. We therefore examine how perceptions of differences among members (i.e., their ‘liability of foreignness’) impact the stability of team membership. Findings from both studies indicate that perceptions of foreignness have a detrimental effect on satisfaction with one’s team members while satisfaction is likely to decrease turnover intention.