Published: 10 Oct 2024 by Stuart Jackson
Tags:
Thought Leadership
International assignments offer exciting opportunities for growth but also present unique challenges that can impact employee wellbeing. As global mobility professionals, understanding these challenges is crucial to ensuring successful assignments. Drawing on insights from Mercer, Santa Fe Relocation, Magrath Sheldrick, Bournes Relocation and other leading experts, this article explores strategies to support the wellbeing of international assignees.
Understanding the Challenges
International assignments can be stressful due to cultural adjustments, language barriers, and adapting to new work environments. These stressors affect not only the assignee but also their families, who may face similar challenges. The stress of moving to a new country can be overwhelming, and without proper support, it can lead to decreased productivity and job satisfaction.
The Importance of Duty of Care
Organisations have a responsibility to support their employees through these transitions. This duty of care involves providing resources and support systems that help assignees integrate into their new roles and environments. Tailored relocation packages that consider the individual needs of each assignee can significantly ease the transition process. According to Mercer, balancing flexibility with duty of care is essential, as it ensures that employees are both supported and empowered.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Employees
For LGBTQ+ employees, international assignments can present additional challenges. It's essential for organisations to create an inclusive environment that respects and supports the diverse needs of all employees. This includes understanding the legal and cultural landscape of the host country regarding LGBTQ+ rights and ensuring that policies are in place to protect these employees. Providing resources and support networks can help LGBTQ+ assignees feel safe and valued, which is crucial for their wellbeing.
Health and Wellbeing Initiatives
Health and wellbeing are critical components of a successful international assignment. According to Mercer, organisations should offer comprehensive health benefits that include mental health support, preventive health screenings, and access to quality healthcare services. Santa Fe Relocation emphasises the importance of embedding wellbeing at the core of an organisation to achieve a positive impact on performance and talent retention. Encouraging practices such as mindfulness can also help employees manage stress and improve their overall wellbeing.
The Role of Flexibility
Flexibility in assignments can greatly enhance employee wellbeing. Allowing employees to have a say in their assignments and providing options for remote work or flexible schedules can reduce stress and improve job satisfaction. This flexibility should be balanced with the organisation's duty of care to ensure that all employees are supported and protected, regardless of their work arrangements.
Conclusion
The wellbeing of international assignees is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach. By understanding the unique challenges faced by these employees and implementing supportive measures, organisations can enhance the success of their international assignments. Global mobility professionals play a crucial role in this process, and by furthering their knowledge and understanding of these issues, they can better support their employees and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
For those interested in delving deeper into these topics, the subject matter experts mentioned in this blog have articles available on the GMPD Learning Hub which provide valuable insights and practical strategies for supporting the wellbeing of international assignees. By exploring these resources, global mobility professionals can enhance their skills and make a meaningful impact on their organisations.