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The Covid-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for change in almost every area of the business world. International assignments were also impacted. During the worst national lockdowns, many industries traditionally reliant on international assignees were faced with project disruption and personnel displacement. As vaccines have allowed the world to lift most restrictions, we looked at what the longer-term impact might be when it comes to global mobility from a number of angles:
- Initial research conducted amongst global businesses in 2021, as Covid-19 was controlled showed that a mobile workforce was still integral to future working plans. Although most expat assignments were likely to follow the traditional format, the area was not unaffected by change. We delved into the alternative options businesses were using to achieve business goals while satisfying employee demand for more flexibility around ways of working.
In research conducted before the pandemic, 70% of businesses believed commuter assignments would increase in popularity in the coming years. While the restrictions implemented by many countries made them almost impossible for a time. We look into whether they are now a viable option once again for employees who want to gain international experience without the upheaval of moving their spouse and family overseas?
Another option for employers with a specific goal to achieve is to send an employee on a short-term assignment of less than a year. A short-term assignment can be a cost-effective option when the goal is to transfer resource, knowledge, or skills.
This kind of task may mean some employees have to be separated from spouse or family for a time. But a short-term assignment may still be a better option if their partner has a career of their own or if children are at pivotal points in their education. We investigate how employers can prepare expat assignees for a short assignment and most importantly how to help them prepare for their return.
Virtual assignment became popular during the pandemic as business travel ground to a halt. They enabled employees to work with colleagues in other locations while remaining at home. Although this kind of assignment provided a bridge while travel was not possible, the question has to be asked, is it a truly effective way of achieving business goals? And how do businesses handle time differences? We look at the pros and cons of virtual assignments and if they are likely to peter out now that international travel is back on the table?
Following the cataclysmic shift in the working world that has occurred in the last few years. Employees are looking for more flexibility from their employers than ever before. Employers are answering this need with remote or hybrid working options and a stronger focus on health and wellbeing in the workplace. How is this translating into the world of the globally mobile workforce? We look at considerations your company may wish to consider to make the most of expat assignees in your business.
There is no denying there is a lot to think about when it comes to the future of expat assignments in your business.
There is one thing we can take off your plate, that’s group international health insurance for expats. Our range of products can be tailored to meet the needs of your business. Get in touch today to see how we can help your employees access private healthcare while on assignment.
