The second stage of coding was an analysis of the initial codes. During this focused coding (Lofland & Lofland, 1995
), the initial codes were sorted into similar groups, to which labels were then attached. Subsequently the analysis and synthesis of results was carried out through feedback and discussion with the participants. The next section considers the findings from our exploratory study in the context of what is currently known and taken for granted in international human resource management concerning short-term international assignments .