What Are Some of the Risks That an Organization Faces When Stationing an Expatriate Overseas?

What are some of the risks that an organization faces when stationing an expatriate overseas?

There are many different factors and scenarios when dealing with expatriating over seas.  The first reason is the change in the atmosphere and lifestyle that an employee may feel.  This is especially relevant when moving to an underdeveloped country.  Some could very well be taken back by the change in lifestyles.  Another problem is the vacation like feel of being away and the feeling of being on a “trip” instead of a business trip.  It can be easy for some to get carried away by the travel and not engage in behavior that is the best for the company.  Being a positive ambassador for the company is something of great importance and can be difficult when being thrown into new environments.

What are some of the capabilities that other expatriates believe contribute to success and failure in overseas assignments?

Today with the Internet and social media it has become easier for expatriates to become connected and easier to network with foreign countries.  Creating a network is something that can make an expatriate assignment a success or failure.  Moving to a new location can be tough and intimidating, but it is easier to connect with people through these various platforms.  Language skills and work permits are also a huge factor in the success of an expatriate.  Knowing the language and knowing what is socially acceptable or not acceptable can be pivotal in conducting business.  Work permits are handled through the host country and can be difficult to obtain, many counties have different qualifications for obtaining these permits as well.  

What have been some of the key issues for successful expatriation of families? What information would you need from the organization before accepting a foreign assignment?

Consciousness, creativity, communication, continuity, collaboration, closure, cultural confirmation and corporate commitment all come into play for a successful expatriation.  When relocating to a new country it is important to learn and adapt to the culture of the new country, this is also important for the family of the expatriate employee because they have a major influence on the experience as well.  Communication between the family and organization is important as well so the company can help out in any way needed as well.  Communication is also key so that the expatriated employee goes into the situation knowing exactly what is expected of him or her.  When expatriating an employee the family is important and the organization or company must help with living arrangements, this is the continuity aspect; this needs to be done so that home life doesn’t interfere with the job.

Select a country, and describe some areas that you should educate a prospective expat about before they would accept an assignment in your country.

Educating a potential expatriate is something that is crucial to the success and longevity of the business arrangement.  There are many countries that are said to be great for expatriates, but one of the most popular is Germany. There is said to be around 250,000 expats living in Germany.  Germany has a strong economy and stable political platform, which helps in doing business.  Seeing if a country is right for an employee is the first step.  Forcing someone into a situation they will not be happy with isn’t good for the company or the individual involved, so researching the employee’s potential new home is the first step.  Some places are more expensive to live than others, and Germany falls into this category.  Everything from living conditions to policy is something that needs to be researched.  Schools and taxes, as well as the healthcare system is something of great importance to most people.  Also the job market and unemployment rate, Germany has a very low unemployment rate and is known for its great healthcare.  The hospitals are said to be well maintained and Germany is known to be a healthy hard working country.  The language barrier is something that would be a major shock to those coming from the west and speaking German would help alleviate that problem.  Maintaining a work life balance is also something that should be researched.  Germany allows for up to 30 days of vacation a year, which is something to be admired.  Public infrastructure is also high, this can be correlated to very high tax rates. Germany has one of the highest tax rates in the world.  However, salaries are significantly higher than those of other European countries.  The climate in Germany is cool and cloudy with wet winters and summer so someone looking for a tropical climate would be disappointed.