While there is no doubt that COVID-19 and resulting restrictions have impacted the extent to which there is an appetite for undertaking international assignments, recent research* has shown that assignees still wish to pursue them, albeit more cautiously.

Additionally, much of what attracted employees to undertake international assignments has been diminished by the current pandemic. For example, the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures, previously a key benefit for many international assignees, has been significantly reduced or, in some cases, eliminated entirely. Employers will likely have to emphasize other benefits to encourage international assignment consideration.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was natural for all assignees to experience some doubts about pursuing an international assignment. However, new challenges have presented themselves as a result of the pandemic, and are now at the forefront of assignee’s minds when considering an international move.

A recent survey**, noted that potential assignees were increasingly concerned by the ability to travel between the host and home countries, schooling arrangements for dependents and handling of the pandemic in the host country. Organizations should be transparent about these issues and provide as much support as possible to any potential assignee faced with making the decision to undertake an international assignment.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, assignees are acutely aware of the kinds of difficulties that may arise during their assignment. The need for a comprehensive package of support is more apparent than ever, and potential assignees will likely expect greater reassurance that this is in place. It will be more important than ever for all organizations planning international assignments to ensure that their provision for support meets the expectations of their assignees. Now more than ever there is a greater focus on Duty of Care.

With this in mind, organizations will need to be prepared to present a robust relocation package in order to continue to encourage assignees to undertake international assignments. While the appetite for these assignments is still there, employees will need to feel increasingly reassured that any potential move will be a positive and worthwhile experience for them and their families.

If you need assistance to review or improve your global mobility program, we can help! Please contact us to schedule a call or virtual meeting to explore how we can assist you.

Call +1-703-723-6509 or send a message to info@adaptiveleadershipstrategies.com

Call +44-7711-734-015 or send a message to david@mcconsulting.co.uk

*Global Connection 2020 Survey: The Impact of COVID-19 on Expatriation and MetLife: Rising to the Globally-Mobile Workforce Needs in the New Normal
**Global Connection 2020 Survey: The Impact of COVID-19 on Expatriation.