In 2012, nearly half of assigning organisations were planning to increase the effectiveness of their expat partner support. I am very pleased to see that these plans, that is new policies, are indeed being implemented and that we have been chosen as the partner to develop, manage and execute them.
Reacting to changing demand
For many years, Global Connection’s surveys have indicated that the ongoing increase of non-family-related activities of expat partners will require a new approach to providing support. The joint Global Connection RES Forum survey of 2012 indicated that 46 per cent of assigning organisations were planning to increase the effectiveness of their expat partner support. In 2012, our client HEINEKEN developed and started with us an impressive new support programme and, since then, we have observed that many other companies have also opted for an adjusted support programme, in order to improve their effectiveness.
Investment instead of relocation cost
In an increasing number of companies, partner support has not fallen victim to cost-cutting reductions. It is regarded as an investment, with an exceptional high return (see HR Newsletter, December 2012). Many surveys have indicated that cost cutting is still a major issue especially where logistics are concerned in relocation.
Approaches to increase effectiveness
When analysing the approaches of 10 clients, who had switched to a more effective support policy, we noted that most of them had:
- started or proceeded with Media & Network as a cost-efficient basic support;
- implemented a pro-active, broad, personalised support programme instead of ‘Gucci money’ cash payments, thereby often saving costs;
- outsourced the management of the support programme;
- communicated directly with the partner, often via us (i.e. minimal contact via the expat employee).
Lean and mean operational structures
In order to save costs and management time we have implemented ‘lean and mean’ operational structures, in close consultation with our clients. We will keep you posted of the best practices in this arena.
