Last week, we presented a webinar on Intra-Country Mobility Trends, which focused on domestically mobile workforces outside the US, UK and Canada. Although this talent segment is not often featured in industry surveys and white papers, the high level of interest in this webinar from mobility professionals across the world indicates that it is critical to a growing number of companies.
We were thrilled to tackle this subject with in-country service providers from China and India and corporate professionals from Whirlpool and Bombardier sharing their wisdom, experience and best practice recommendations with our audience.
Here are 5 key takeaways from our speakers:
When developing a global mobility program, including intra-country mobility, be sure to secure executive sponsorship to ensure consistent roll-out and implementation worldwide. Whirlpool had the sponsorship of the CEO, while Bombardier had the support of the VPs of HR from its Aero and Transport divisions.
Take into account the availability and suitability of local talent for your particular industry and the specific countries in which you operate; competition in your market may require additional support to overcome relocation reluctance. Work closely with local HR to ensure that policy nuances meet local business needs.
When developing policies for intra-country mobility of both expats and local nationals, consider the similarities and differences of both types of moves.
Recognize that one size does not fit all, and develop a general policy framework with local norms and addenda. Consider offering a core/flex approach to intra-country mobility — just as you would for global mobility — to balance consistency with some flexibility to adapt to local country norms, while maintaining cost control.
Cost of living can vary significantly from country to country; so, too, can standard of living, especially in emerging markets where infrastructure and availability of comparable schools, housing and even consumer goods varies greatly from city to city. Provide support for moves from lower to higher cost locations, even on a temporary basis, to ease this transition.
We’d like to thank everyone who participated in the webinar for your time and attention! If you missed it, you can access a recording of the complete program here.