Abstract

Using a new unique employee and manager survey in 8 MNEs in Ghana in 2015, this study analyses the transfer of knowledge at individual level using social network analysis. This study systematically examines the various work and social links between employees at these MNEs, and the channels for the diffusion of knowledge. We mapped out the network structure and calculated the network properties for the firms and individuals.

We then tested whether the knowledge transfer within the MNEsisinfluenced by the social network structure and compared the social network andtheknowledgetransferinMNEsofdifferent backgrounds, i.e. the European and Chinese MNEs. The research finds that decentralized networks of the MNEs enhance knowledge transfer in the firm. In addition, more channels of communication mean more knowledge transfer. We also find that the Chinese MNEs and European MNEs have no significant difference in knowledge transfers except that sub-ordinates in Chinese MNEs benefit more from knowledge transfers.