Your Expat Package: Don’t Overlook the One Thing That Can Make or Break Your Assignment

You’re embarking on an international assignment – a significant opportunity! The company’s investing in you, your family’s preparing for a big change, and you're envisioning a successful experience. But let’s be honest, are you truly set up for long-term success?

Think of your expat journey as building a house. The higher salary, housing allowance, and education benefits are essential materials. But without a solid foundation and someone to guide you through the process, your “house” may not stand the test of time. That's where mindset support comes in – and why it's so important to include in your package.

It's a critical consideration, especially when you consider that almost 50% of expat assignments fail, often because 70% of families struggle to adapt to the new environment.

Companies often recognize the importance of financial and logistical support, but they may not fully grasp the personal and emotional challenges of an international assignment. Here's why you should discuss comprehensive mindset support (like the mentoring programs offered by Interoots Consulting with your HR department, presenting it as a smart, strategic investment for both you and the company:

Five Reasons to Advocate for Mindset Support in Your Expat Package:

1) Maximize the Company’s Investment: 

The organization is making a substantial investment in your relocation. A stressed, overwhelmed, or unbalanced executive won’t perfom as expected! Mindset support helps ensure you’re performing at your best, delivering results, and justifying their investment. It's about enabling you to adapt quickly, make sound decisions, and contribute effectively.

2) Minimize the Risk of Assignment Failure: 

Given that almost half of all expat assignments don't succeed, taking proactive steps is crucial. A key reason for failure is difficulty adapting to the new environment and maintaining personal well-being. Proactive mindset support directly addresses this issue by providing the tools and strategies needed to navigate cultural differences, build strong family relationships, and foster a sense of belonging. By investing in mindset support, you're not just improving your chances of success – you're actively mitigating the very real risk of a failed assignment, saving the company significant time, resources, and potential setbacks. It's smart risk management.

3) Prioritize Family Adaptation to Maximize Overall Success:

It's no secret that your family's well-being is directly linked to your assignment's success. With 70% of expat families struggling to adapt, the need for targeted support is undeniable. Expatriation isn't just a career move; it's a family journey. Our programs provide personalized guidance and resources for each family member, addressing their unique challenges and fostering a sense of connection and purpose. By investing in family well-being, you're not just supporting your loved ones – you're directly influencing the success and longevity of your entire assignment. A united, adaptable family is your greatest asset.

4) Enhance Strategic Decision-Making: 

Making important life and career decisions in a new, unfamiliar context can be challenging. Mindset support provides a framework for clear thinking, objective analysis, and values-based decision-making. It helps you make informed choices that align with your long-term goals, both professionally and personally.

5) Build Resilience and Achieve Balance: 

Expat life often involves unexpected challenges. My program equips you with the resilience to navigate those challenges, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and thrive despite the uncertainties. It's about helping you gain perspective, identify what’s truly important, and create a sustainable path to fulfillment, wherever you are in the world.

How to Frame the Conversation with HR:

As an executive, you know that a successful global assignment requires more than just professional expertise. Securing the right support systems is crucial for maximizing your performance and ensuring a smooth transition for your family. Here’s how to approach HR and make a compelling case for mindset support:

• Highlight Your Value – and Protect Their Investment: Remind HR, subtly, that you've been chosen for this role because of your unique skills and leadership. Emphasize that ensuring your well-being and focus is simply a smart business decision that protects their significant investment in you.

• Emphasize Your Family's Role: Acknowledge that a smooth transition for your family is essential for you to operate at peak performance. Frame family support as a critical factor that removes distractions and enables you to fully focus on the company's strategic goals. A happy, well-adjusted family means a completely focused executive.

• Be Direct: This is Strategic, Not Optional: Don't position mindset support as a "nice-to-have." Make it clear that this is a non-negotiable element of your success plan. Explain that you've carefully considered the challenges of relocating, and you're proactively addressing potential hurdles to ensure a seamless and productive transition.

• Focus on ROI: Link Your Well-being to the Bottom Line: Frame your request in terms of return on investment. A well-supported executive is a more productive, innovative, and effective leader. By investing in your well-being, the company isn't just doing you a favor; they're boosting their own profitability and global competitiveness.

• Present Solutions: Come Prepared to Lead the Way: Don't just point out the need for support; come prepared with specific, actionable recommendations. Show them that you've already researched reputable programs and services that can provide the necessary mindset and family support. This demonstrates initiative and a commitment to making the assignment a success.

The Bottom Line: Don't underestimate the value of a strong foundation. Advocate for the support you need to thrive during your expat assignment. Your career, your family, and your overall well-being are worth it.

Interested in learning more about how Interoots Consulting, LLC mindset support program can help you build a successful and fulfilling expat experience? Contact me today to discuss your specific needs. I work with families around the globe, creating customized programs to ensure they thrive, no matter where they live.