The Role of Trust in Employer Support during Relocation
When a family decides to relocate to a new country, they are taking on significant risks. While the experience is undoubtedly exciting, it can also be daunting and overwhelming. Families will face a myriad of changes including cultural adjustments, new work environments, new education systems, and an entirely different way of life. For those families there is one thing that is absolutely essential, that is absolutely needed to make this assignment successful: trust in the company.
Trust plays a key role in making the transition easier for expats and helping them to adjust quickly to their new surroundings. A family who is confident in the company´s ability to provide support is better equipped to face the challenges they will experience while moving abroad and during their time in a foreign country. However, when trust is compromised, the situation can become quite stressful and painful, especially for families with children. This can result in decreased productivity, mental health problems, and often an early repatriation or even employment termination.
Building Trust through Transparent Communication and Support Networks
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, to trust is defined as:
In a relocation context, the employer enters into a relationship not just with the employee but with their entire family. As with any relationship, establishing trust begins with open and honest conversation. The expat family needs comprehensive information on global mobility topics like housing assistance, cultural and language training, children`s support services, healthcare, and tax guidance. They need to know what challenges might lie ahead and how the company is supporting the family. Transparency about what the company offers and also expects is key.
Once the expatriates arrive in their host country, the family needs to see that the company is actually delivering on what they have been promising. Any perceived gap between expectations and reality can erode trust quickly.
When issues or misunderstandings arise, whether with the employer or with third parties like suppliers, schools, or healthcare providers, it is essential for expats to discuss these concerns directly with their employer rather than making assumptions or harboring frustrations. Similarly, employers should maintain open channels of communication with external partners and be prepared to advocate on behalf of their employees when necessary. This proactive, two-way approach ensures that challenges can be addressed efficiently, support measures can be adjusted as needed, and trust is upheld. Companies that prioritize transparency and collaborate effectively with both families and service providers create a supportive and reliable environment, allowing employees to focus fully on their roles and ensuring a smoother transition for everyone involved.
The Human Side of Global Mobility: Supporting Expats beyond Logistics
Empathy plays a crucial role in building trust. Too often global mobility is often treated as a logistical operation, with many professionals focused solely on moving talent, ensuring compliance and overlooking the financial site. However, companies that acknowledge the emotional and psychological impact of uprooting an entire family and appreciate the sacrifices made for the move, are better positioned to support their expats on another level. If employees feel valued, companies will see an improved work performance, higher retention rates, increased job satisfaction, and a long-term success for both the company and the employee; a win-win situation.
How can this be achieved?
Regular Check-Ins: Providing ongoing support through regular communication to assess the well-being of the expat family.
Access to Resources: Offer services like coaching, counseling, and stress management programs.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster a supportive ecosystem involving HR, local support teams, and external service providers.
In today’s interconnected world, companies that invest in building trust will not only enhance the experiences of their expat employees but will also reap the long-term benefits of a committed and engaged workforce.
To future-proof global operations and remain competitive, organizations must prioritize trust, empathy, and holistic support. By doing so, they’ll not only excel in their international endeavors but also foster a company culture that stands out in a world where talent mobility and human connections matter more than ever.
TRUST IS THE HIGHEST FROM OF HUMAN MOTIVATION.
IT BRINGS OUT THE VERY BEST IN PEOPLE.
– Stephen Covey -
This Article is Part of the Expat Well-Being Whitepaper
This article is featured in the whitepaper Expat Well-Being: From a Nice-to-Have to a Must-Have in Global People Mobility, which brings together insights from experts in the field to highlight the importance of supporting expatriates and their families.
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