Exploring new cultures is a major incentive for relocation, yet adapting remains a primary challenge, particularly for those who move frequently.
- Language barriers affect 43% of expatriates, presenting significant hurdles.
- 41% of expatriates find cultural adaptation increasingly difficult.
- Cultural fatigue grows for seasoned expatriates, unnoticed by managers.
- A disparity exists between expats’ and managers’ views on relocation motivators.
Relocating offers the opportunity to experience new cultures, consistently ranked among the top three motivators for expatriates. Despite this allure, adapting to new environments proves challenging, especially for those relocating multiple times. Surveys indicate that language barriers impact 43% of expatriates, complicating their adaptation efforts.
Cultural adaptation emerges as a significant challenge, with 41% of expatriates finding it difficult to navigate. This becomes more pronounced for those who have relocated more than once, rising from less than half to 60% for these seasoned assignees. However, employers seem unaware of the challenges posed by cultural fatigue experienced by employees on multiple assignments.
The research highlights that a gap exists between the motivations perceived by expatriates and their managers. For employees, personal factors like improved quality of life and cultural exposure dominate motivations. Conversely, managers often attribute relocation to career progression and skill development, overlooking the personal allure, which may impact their ability to attract talent for international assignments.
Cultural exposure, initially considered a positive, turns into a challenge with 46% of expatriates reporting cultural differences as a major issue. Getting acquainted with a new language and adjusting to varying paces of life are primary hurdles. Yet, managers tend to underestimate the challenges these cultural differences pose over multiple relocations.
According to Crown World Mobility, the perception that relocating becomes easier with experience might be misleading. While managers believe seasoned assignees handle new cultures better, 56% of experienced expatriates report increased challenges with cultural adaptation. This disconnect suggests that managers may be overestimating expatriates’ familiarity with relocation while underestimating the ‘culture fatigue’ that can occur. Jo Danehl emphasizes the need for HR to recognize these challenges and provide comprehensive support to assignees.
Cultural adaptation challenges persist, highlighting a need for awareness and support from employers.
