Unlocking the value and ROI of international assignments (IAs)

1. Knowledge transfer and innovative problem solving

Value - Cross-cultural exposure enhances creativity and problem-solving. Expats bring diverse perspectives that drive innovative thinking.

Rate of return - Measure tangible outcomes like improved processes, novel ideas implemented, and successful resolutions of complex challenges.

2. Skill development and career growth

Value - Expats develop a versatile skill set – language fluency, global leadership skills, and adaptability – enriching their career prospects.

Rate of return - Track skill acquisition and application, observe career progression within and beyond the assignment, and gauge the influence on individual and team performance.

3. Diversity and inclusion

Value - International assignments foster cultural exchange that breeds appreciation for diversity and nurtures an inclusive workenvironment.

Rate of return - Evaluate employee attitudes towards diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity through surveys, observing how these values impact collaboration and teamwork.

4. Global collaboration

Value - Working across borders hones global teamwork and communication skills, strengthening collaboration and efficiency.

Rate of return - Assess improvements in cross-border cooperation, quantify efficiency gains, and measure the success of international team coordination.

5. Market expansion

Value - Expat insights into local markets provide a strategic edge, facilitating successful market entry and growth strategies.

Rate of return - Measure concrete results like revenue growth, increased market share, and successful penetration into new markets driven by the market insights of expat assignments.

6. Leadership development

Value - International assignments cultivate leadership qualities and prepare individuals for future leadership roles.

Rate of return - Evaluate the career trajectory of assignees post-assignment, their readiness for leadership positions, and the contributions made to organizational performance.

7. Adaptability and resilience

Value - Thriving in diverse environments cultivates adaptability and resilience, essential in a rapidly changing business landscape.

Rate of return - Assess how expats demonstrate adaptability and resilience, their ability to navigate ambiguity, and their success in handling challenges and changes.

8. Global perspective

Value - Exposure to international markets enriches perspectives, influencing effective decisionmaking and innovative expansion strategies.

Rate of return - Evaluate the influence of global perspectives on strategic business choices, market entry strategies, and the overallcompetitiveness of the organization.

IAs and their families need robust support in every stage of their assignment lifecycle, including:

Employee HEALTH solutions

Promoting health and well-being and managing illness and medical emergencies

• Access to health care solutions
• Personalized health and medication advice and support
• Preventive care
• Wellness and stress-management programs
• Workplace safety policies
• Emergency medical intervention

Employee WELL-BEING solutions

Supporting employees’ overall physical, mental, and emotional health

• Mental health resources
• Work-life balance support
• Personal and professional development and guidance
• Security advice and assistance

Employee RESILIENCE solutions

Building the skills and strategies employees need to cope with stress, uncertainty, and adversity

• Training on stress management, mindfulness, breathwork and resilience-building techniques
• Support for everyday professional challenges such as adapting to new work environments and roles, employee management and cross-cultural communications
• Support for everyday life challenges such as finding administrative, organizational and support services from home help to finding accommodation to sorting out bureaucracy such as local taxes and work visas