As we become more aware of #GlobalMobility as a corporate function, body of research, and whole industry, compared to thinking it was a global taxi service when I used this hashtag on Twitter in 2009, I thought it would be great to refresh the main issues that we still face in many organizations. I still see five major challenges in Global Mobility across industries and countries: 1 – SELECTION and SUCCESSION PLANNING: Expats are often selected on an ad-hoc basis, and intercultural competence is hardly ever considered in the selection process. Female Expats and Rainbow Talent are still greatly underrepresented. Our HR systems have reinforced systems of patriarchy. We need to come to a more data-driven selection process and talent selection […]

An expat coach typically helps individuals who are living or working abroad navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with expatriate life. Their role can involve various aspects: 1. Cultural Adjustment: They assist expatriates in understanding and adapting to the culture, customs, and social norms of their new location. This may involve providing cultural training, language lessons, or advice on how to interact effectively in different cultural contexts. 2. Career Development: Expatriate coaches often help their clients advance their careers while living abroad. This might include guidance on job search strategies, networking in a new country, or understanding local workplace dynamics. 3. Emotional Support: Moving to a new country can be emotionally challenging. An expat coach provides a supportive environment for […]

It had never occurred to me that a ballpoint pen is actually refillable. I did not even think that it was using ink. I was never a big fan of the biro, ball pen, or dot pen. How could you even have so many words to describe the same instrument? In high school, the taste and smell made me nauseous.  To motivate me to “get back to school,” I cleaned up all my desk drawers and found two hand-softening silver ink dispensers rolling over a ball. With these two, my handwriting looks as beautiful as that of Daisy, the kitten. Have you ever seen kittens handwrite? Me neither, but she came to mind, and it’s a lovely thought. She sports […]

Embarking on an expatriate journey is often portrayed as an exciting adventure, promising new experiences, cultures, and personal growth. However, beneath the surface of this exhilarating chapter in your life lies a lesser-explored aspect – the risk of expatriate burnout and trauma. When moving to the land of cheese and chocolate, many of us had an idea of a dream country, and I used to remember my favorite childhood cartoon series, “Heidi,” as a mental reference. During the transition phase, I soon realized that there was another reality about Switzerland.  The Swiss Reality This a reality you might not be familiar with when you listen to touristy advertisements, and it’s probably not the issues you had in mind (e.g., the […]