By far, most of our support is delivered virtually. And given the high satisfaction rates of expat partners, I am surprised that many players in the market still stick with on-the-ground presence models. Some even deny the advantages of virtual support, which is itself not a new technology.
Distance learning is common
Nowadays distance learning is extremely common. Even Harvard is a front player in this field. More and more companies are switching to virtual internal training. Although the adoption of telemedicine is not yet widespread many health care providers are planning to introduce it. Big improvements in quality and significant cost savings are anticipated.
On-the-ground presence
So why do players in the spousal support market still stick with on-the-ground presence? Often organisational issues are the main reason to continue with non-virtual execution. Quality of support, however, is often cited.
More effective and cost efficient
But there is a good chance that the best consultant, coach or trainer – the one with the most relevant knowledge and who speaks the right language – for a specific request will be based somewhere else. Therefore, on-the-ground presence should not be leading. Virtual support is also less costly. There are no meeting rooms and there is no travel involved, which is good for our carbon footprint.
Workshops can be the exception
A virtual workshop, however, could have negative consequences for the group dynamics. Consequently, for the time being, our one-day intercultural Cycles of Change workshops will not be conducted virtually.
Positive evaluations
Most importantly for us is that this cost-efficient, virtual, personalised spousal support is resulting in very positive evaluations from spouses. They are not only very satisfied with the support they are receiving, but nearly 100% of beneficiaries also recommend other spouses to avail of it.
