Biculturals: An emerging demographic in organizations

Dr. Linehan was awarded Research and Professional Development funds for mixed method research on how to understand and adapt the changing workforce of bicultural employees in Canadian organizations.

If Canada wishes to thrive in the 21st century, there is an urgent need to understand the social, cultural, economic, and business impacts of integrating our populations (SSHRC, 2014). What are the emerging opportunities and risks? One could ask all the same questions of Canadian organizations and of our leaders. Canadian organizations need to understand and adapt to a changing workforce that includes an emerging demographic of bicultural employees (Brannen & Thomas, 2010; Catalyst Canada & Diversity Institute, 2007; Conference Board of Canada, 2008; Hyun & Lee, 2014). This mixed method research highlights competencies developed in the experience of acculturation within host societies and within organizations.