Global mobility has become a key business strategy for companies looking to expand into new markets. Allowing employees to relocate internationally can benefit both businesses and staff, but also presents challenges for HR in managing the process.
What is Global Mobility?
Global mobility refers to companies moving employees from one country to another, either short or long-term. This approach is increasingly common as businesses become more global and workforces more flexible. For companies, it aids expansion into new markets. For employees, it provides career and cultural opportunities. However, it requires comprehensive management from HR to handle immigration, taxation, recruitment and employee wellbeing.
Expanding into new countries is crucial for business growth, and global mobility enables this in several ways:
Access to Talent
Relocation opportunities attract candidates willing to move abroad for work. This gives companies a larger talent pool to recruit from.
Cultural Understanding
Employees with experience of different cultures and markets can help companies adapt products, services and strategies to suit local needs.
Productivity
The right employees will settle well into new roles and surroundings, maintaining or improving productivity. Regular check-ins from HR help achieve this.
Development
Global mobility programmes provide progression opportunities for high-potential employees, which aids staff retention and motivation.
Considerations for HR
While global mobility benefits business strategy, it also presents challenges for HR:
Employee Contracts
Contracts must cover immigration, tax, compensation and relocation terms. Relocation clauses allowing companies to move staff can be controversial.
Performance Management
HR must monitor employee performance during and after relocation to ensure productivity and wellbeing. Targets and regular contact are important.
Recruitment
Advertising relocation opportunities attracts certain candidates but deters others. Discussing mobility in the interview process and offering relocation packages helps.
Progression
HR must determine who is eligible for global mobility based on seniority and business needs. A structured programme is required.
Global mobility is crucial for companies expanding internationally, enabling access to new talent, cultural insight, productivity and development opportunities. However, it also brings responsibilities for HR in managing employee mobility. IMC Group offers Global payroll solutions and HR consulting services to support companies implementing global mobility programmes. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
