Local Vs Foreign: Who Reigns Supreme? A Study On Perception Of Employers On Employee Possession Of Skills And Knowledge In Maldivian Resort Sector.

Abstract

This study examines the perceptions of hiring managers in the Maldivian tourism industry regarding the differing competencies and knowledge levels of local and foreign employees. Data was collected through a questionnaire distributed to 175 high-ranking managers and directors responsible for making hiring decisions.  In addition to descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing using the independent samples Kruskal-Wallis Test, based on the respondents’ nationality, was employed. Descriptive data analysis reveals that local workers excel in teamwork and collaboration skills and possess a greater depth of industry-specific knowledge compared to their foreign counterparts. Further investigation, considering nationality of the hirer, indicates that managers from foreign nationalities share a perspective that local employees have lower levels of competence and knowledge compared to foreign employees. This perception may help explain the lower rate of local employment within the industry