this stakeholder group has an input into this selection decision-making process. The relocation of an individual is the only area


within HR where family are directly part of the company’s responsibilities – either spouses/partners and/or children are moving with the employee or the transfer will separate them. Knowledge and understanding of an individual’s family circumstances, including such aspects as dual careers and children’s education, will therefore have a direct impact on the feasibility of an individual to move and the likelihood of their assignment being a success. Given the role of the family in supporting individuals


on assignment, gathering information from these stakeholders as to their willingness and ability to move with the employee (or the effect of separation upon them should they stay behind) is crucial to the assignment selection decision.


ASSIGNMENT TYPES Planning for international mobility involves consideration of assignment length. The types of assignments used will have an effect upon all stakeholder groups – short-term, commuter, rotational and other forms of flexible assignments are typically unaccompanied and thus have an effect upon the individual and family involved. Long-term assignments are usually accompanied and similarly will influence the decision of the individual and the family members. The home and host line management will also have a view as to the appropriate length of time of the assignment – from the host country perspective how long that person is required, and from the home country perspective for how long can that person be spared. It is also important to consider the communication


approaches being used in terms of identifying and selecting appropriate talent, holding discussions with family members and communicating the outcome of the selection decision and policy components that will apply to the move. These must be articulated carefully and presented in writing so that the individual and family are able to make a sensible decision on the implications of moving. This will also guide both home and host management as to the benefits that will be provided and any service providers as to what they can offer within policy and budget.


“Knowledge and understanding of an individual’s family circumstances, including such aspects as dual careers and children’s education, will have a direct impact on the feasibility of an individual to move and the likelihood of their assignment being a success.”


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SERVICE PROVIDERS The range of service providers that can be used to support global mobility is very wide. Global mobility providers can manage every aspect of the process and they may do this themselves or call upon external specialists to assist them. As demonstrated by this year’s Relocate Awards, destination services providers can assist with finding housing and schools as well as orientation, networking and cultural support. They can also assist dual career couples with work opportunities for spouses and partners. Linking people with role models and networks is particularly helpful for accompanying family members. Education provision for children is crucial to the assignment success and the performance outcomes of the assignee. Once again, as demonstrated through the Relocate Awards, education consultancies can help with bridging gaps in education through home tutoring and helping to find appropriate schools to enrol students. International schools themselves are extremely proficient and active in supporting families by helping parents as well as their children to settle in and make friends. Access to support mechanisms, such as buddy groups, are particularly valuable for family members. Housing is absolutely crucial to the assignment


success and to the performance outcomes of the assignee. A happy home creates a happy family and the provision of suitable accommodation whether this is via a serviced apartment or a rental property is a fundamental part of the relocation package. There is no doubt that there are a number of extremely capable, competent and supportive housing specialists in the marketplace who will go the extra mile to ensure availability and flexibility in accommodation provision to ensure housing at high quality but within a cost-effective budget.


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