Does your expatriate program follow the rules of the road?

Article Type: From: Human Resource Management International Digest, Volume 16, Issue 5

Csizmar C. Compensation and Benefits Review (USA), January/February 2008, Vol. 40 No. 1, Start page: 61, No. of pages: 5

Purpose – Examines how companies can manage the expense of expatriate employees and ensure that business objectives are achieved. Design/methodology/approach – Recommends that companies utilise basic rules for the management of expatriates: (1) develop written policies and procedures to establish standard practice; (2) ensure that the expenses involved in expatriate work are fully understood; (3) establish a clear hierarchy of who is required to formally approve both the assignment and its terms and conditions; (4) investigate whether shorter-term assignments can be used; (5)ensure that expatriate employees fit in with the local culture; (6) make sure there is not just one candidate for the job; (7) avoid special deals for individuals; (8) ensure that all the details of the assignment are agreed; (9)provide local and home country contact; and (10) work out an exit strategy. Findings – Considers that the use of these rules will achieve lower costs,achievement of business objectives and satisfied employees and host management. Originality/value - Provides guidance on the basics of expatriate projects. ISSN: 0886-3687 Reference: 37AF897

Keywords: Expatriates, Management techniques, Business strategy