Question

Discuss how multinational companies can deal with repatriation issue.

How can companies benefit from using women expatriate? Is there advantage in male versus female?

Answer 1

The impact an expat assignment can have on an employee, and the consequent repatriation, are sometimes underestimated. Since repatriates frequently return to their old place in their country of origin, they are supposed to know how the wind blows. Nevertheless, they learned new skills during the time they spent abroad. Their old job may annoy the average repatriate, and workplace cultural differences often hit harder than expected.

In order to avoid reverse culture shock affecting their work ethic, returning expats need to communicate clearly to their employers which type of support they need. Receiving the right kind of benefits is key to a repatriate's reintegration upon their return. Although repatriation always raises some problems, most companies do not offer a complete repatriation package but decide on a case-by - case basis what form of support they want to provide. To walk away with the contract you need, you have to ask for the right kind of benefits, preferably even before you leave for your assignment.

As assignment costs continue to increase, businesses are increasingly exploring the use of alternative assignments such as commuting arrangements or regular business travel. Although these types of assignments are not without concern , particularly in the enforcement control arena; like short-term assignments, they can give women workers a way to gain foreign exposure and increase their visibility factor, all of which can help to improve their potential leadership opportunities.

Taking advantage of the experience of successful female expatriates as role models for aspiring young women can bring two benefits for a organization. Second , it provides a model of female success to prospective female delegates and can provide them with a mentor as they look to develop their career in leadership and eventually embark on an foreign assignment. It also allows former expatriates to make more full use of their international experience upon repatriation.