| Abstract [eng] |
Since 1991, more than 484,000 residents have emigrated from Lithuania, yet in 2020 re-emigration exceeded emigration for the first time since 2001. Returning employees bring international experience and a broader perspective, but reintegration poses specific challenges – reverse culture shock, loss of social ties, and non-recognition of experience may lead to re-emigration. State policy remains fragmented, placing responsibility on organisations, where the direct supervisor is the closest contact; yet this role remains understudied – understanding it could help improve reintegration practices and reduce re-emigration risk. Object of the study – The Role of Direct Supervisors' Caring for Re-Emigrants in Their Reintegration Process. Aim of the study – To Reveal the Role of Direct Supervisors' Caring for Re-Emigrants in Their Reintegration Process. Objectives of the study: 1. to analyse the theoretical concepts of re-emigration, reintegration, and direct supervisors' caring for re-emigrants; 2. to develop a logical research framework; 3. to design the research methodology; 4. to empirically investigate the role of direct supervisors' caring for re-emigrants in their reintegration process. Research methods. Scientific literature review and comparative analysis were applied for the theoretical part. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 re-emigrant employees and 6 direct supervisors for the empirical study; data were analysed using content analysis. Main results and conclusions. The study revealed that direct supervisor caring acts as a link between formal organisational structures and the re-emigrant's experienced reintegration – what matters is not caring as intention, but as action. Emotional support and structured adaptation assistance had the strongest impact, while person–job fit creation was the weakest dimension. A notable gap was identified between the declared appreciation of international experience and its actual utilisation; intercultural sensitivity remained low and social integration was left to chance. Unresolved reintegration challenges may lead to re-emigration, making the direct supervisor's role significant both organisationally and in the broader context of retaining talent in the country. |
