Question

1. In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of having an international assignment as part of your career?
2. If you had the opportunity, would you accept a new position abroad?
3. What issues and concerns might you have personally about such a possibility?

Answer 1

1. Company who aims to be a competitive a player in the market usually send some of their employees on international assignments. Some advantages are –

Expansion into new markets- According to many surveys, companies send their employees abroad to expand in new and emerging markets. As in today fast growing environment, business cannot be isolated and increasing globalization is pushing companies to expand internationally. By sending employees abroad, company try to get knowledge before setting up business there.

Development of Top management- talented employees are also send abroad by company to get more advanced training and also to represent company to the world.

To gain new perspectives- Employees on overseas assignment, learn new business ideas and broad perspectives of business. It makes the employees more competitive and globalized.

Some disadvantages are-

Settlement issues- Some Employees are not able to settle in new country in a totally different culture and environment. This create problem for company as well as increase cost for the company.

Repatriation issues- After completion of assignment, when employees come back to own country they feel discomfort and lack of motivation. Once after settling in new country, again settlement in own country is difficult.

Involve high risk and cosy- Choosing correct employees for sending on international assignment is highly risky as it involve he cost and responsibility. If wrong employees are send then it cost high to the company.

2. If would have given the opportunity, I will accept the new position abroad, but before agreeing to occupy the new position, I will analyse that I should have good knowledge of the position and the place where I will be send is favourable for me.

3. I may personally see that I should have relent knowledge about the job profile and the role and responsibilities demanded from me. Also, locational and adjustment factors are important to gain some idea before actually going to the place.