Having spent many years as an HR Business Partner to executive expats in multinationals, I've gained a unique perspective from what I have also experienced on the "client side". As HR professionals, we comprehend the dynamics of the entire organization, from interns to CEOs, logistics to sales and marketing. We navigate behind the curtains and understand what goes on behind the impactful decisions. Transitioning to expat status is often a long-awaited achievement, met with immense excitement upon receiving the offer. Yet, as an HR leader, I've noticed a subtle truth: while you and your manager may be thrilled, that feeling might not be mirrored by your peers and team, especially those in the destination country. Here are some insights learned from my experience:
Lesson 1: Performance Matters More Than You
Sad but true! In the corporate sphere, performance often takes precedence over recognizing an individual's needs. Expats, when they begin a new assignment, must showcase exceptional performance to affirm their worth and justify their compensation. Candidly, family well-being is crucial for expatriation success; if discontent or support needs arise, many companies overlook this aspect because they understand the financial support offered should address this. My advice is to manage your expectations and, if possible, secure specialist support beforehand (include this service in your expat package negotiation!). Some forward-thinking companies invest in family guidance, enabling you to focus on performance without compromising your personal and your family's well-being.
Lesson 2: Local Partners May Question Your Value
In expat situations, local colleagues sometimes wonder why the company invests more in expatriates. The higher perceived cost can lead to questions about why the company picked an expat over a potentially cheaper local candidate. To handle this, expats should show unique skills that justify the investment and build positive relationships with local colleagues. Being aware of this beforehand allows you to prepare and work on a strategy to make a smooth transition into your new team.
Lesson 3: Be Aware of Short-Term Perception
As an expat, there's often a perception that your presence is transitory, geared towards delivering immediate results to secure your next promotion and subsequent relocations. This perception influences how others perceive your commitment to the team and the organization. Counteracting this requires proactive communication about long-term goals and contributions, emphasizing sustained value beyond short-term objectives, and understanding that you might move on but your team will stay.
Lesson 4: Avoid Cultural Misunderstandings
Local employees may feel that expats lack a deep understanding of the local culture, leading them to perceive expat proposals as nonsensical or disconnected. To address this, expats should invest time in cultural immersion (beyond cross-cultural training), actively seeking to understand and appreciate local customs, communication styles, and work practices. Listen to your local team and colleagues and learn from them. Bridging this gap fosters collaboration and enhances the acceptance of your initiatives.
Lesson 5: Leave a Positive Impact
When expats approach their assignments with cultural awareness and the appropriate posture, they can transcend challenges and leave a positive mark. This involves actively engaging with the local culture, demonstrating openness to learning, and adapting your working style to align with local practices. Such awareness not only facilitates smoother integration but also enables you to contribute positively to the work environment.
Embracing these insights, while having the support of an experienced advisor, serves as a strategic compass, enabling you to navigate the dynamics of expat life. By understanding and addressing these dynamics, you can foster a smoother integration into the professional landscape, build lasting connections, contributing meaningfully to the organization and taking an even higher next step.
Do not let becoming an expat be your final destination. Consider this assignment as the first step toward a successful global career.
Count on me to support you and your family throughout this journey.
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